A MOTORCYCLIST was deliberately driven into by a car, before being stabbed with a screwdriver in a late night attack.

The victim, a woman in her late-teens, was targeted by a blue car in Alton Gardens, Southend, at about 11.35pm Monday night.

After the crash masked men who were inside the car then proceeded to get out and stab her in the arm with what police suspect was a screwdriver. They then got back in and drove off.

The woman, who is aged in her late-teens, was treated for injuries which are not considered to be life-threatening.

Detectives say the are “keeping an open mind” as to the motive of the assault, but believe it could potentially be a targeted attacked.

Mark Flewitt, deputy mayor and St Laurence ward councillor, said: “I am absolutely horrified to hear about this dreadful attack. Not only were they not satisfied with running the poor woman off the road, but they then stabbed her- it’s just vicious.

“I’m sure it will have quite a psychological impact on her for a very long time after this malicious attack. It will have knocked her confidence too.

“This shows that it really can happen anywhere- not just in the town centre. Please don’t be afraid to go out, but do keep aware.”

He continued: “I’d urge anyone who knows absolutely anything about the attack to come forward.

"No matter how small the detail or insignificant you think it may be it could really help the police with their investigation and catching those responsible.

“My sympathy is with the victim at this time. Police will now be trying to piece together pieces of information to find out the motive, which will hopefully help track down the attackers.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or were in the area around this time and have dash cam or video doorbell footage.

"Anyone with information should call 101, quoting incident number of July 27.”