A CYCLIST suffered a nasty head injury after an attacker struck him with a baseball bat from within a passing car.

Essex Police have launched an investigation after an assault which took place in Burnt Mills Road, Basildon, at about 5.30pm on January 23.

According to the force a man in his 20s was hit with a baseball bat while out on his bike by someone in the passenger seat of a dark coloured car.

As a result of the attack he suffered a laceration to the top of his head, which subsequently require stitches.

Stuart Terson, Basildon councillor for Pitsea North West, has slammed those responsible for the senseless attack. 

Echo:

He said: “Firstly, I hope the young man is recovering welling. 

“This is a shocking act and completely unprovoked the resident was just cycling down the road. 

“I would ask anybody within the information to contact the police. Someone must know who carried this out. 

“This behaviour must not be tolerated.”

Dr Sam Gascoyne, Basildon councillor for Pitsea North West has offered his support to the victim.

He said: "This is a terrible crime and the victim will be in my thoughts and prayers. 

"I'd like to echo the plea from the police that if anyone knows anything please get in touch. 

"I'd like the victim to know if there is anything I can personally do to help,

I'd gladly do it. 

"Crime remains a high priority and we must continue to be vigilant. If we work together and stand united the criminals will never win."

Essex Police have now issued an appeal to the public.

A spokesman for the police said: “If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"You can call us on 101. Please quote the crime reference number 42/13817/23.”