Driver who deliberately knocked cyclist from bike jailed for 16 months (+ video)

A driver who deliberately knocked a cyclist from his bike in Colchester last year has been jailed for 16 months.

Ashley Merrett, aged 30 and from West Bergholt, pleaded guilty at Ipswich Crown Court last December to actual bodily harm, dangerous driving and common assault in connection with the incident in May 2016.

> Video: Driver guilty of charges including common assault after knocking cyclist off bike

Footage released by Essex Police following his trial showed the cyclist riding with a friend on North Station Road when Merrett braked suddenly.

The rider made a gesture in protest, whereupon Merrett, who was driving a Ford Mondeo, swerved into him.

The cyclist was knocked from his bike and sustained minor injuries.

His riding companion tried to flag down Merrett and he too was targeted by the driver, although he managed to avoid being hit.

Merrett drove off but was arrested by police later the same day.

He was sentenced today, reports the Daily Gazette, and besides the custodial sentence was also banned by Judge Rupert Overbury from driving for two years and eight months.