A cyclist from Surrey, England, is recovering from a violent attack by masked individuals on motorbikes while using a designated cycling route near Box Hill. The rider sustained serious injuries, including broken bones and a punctured lung, after being forcefully pushed off his bike on Wednesday evening.
The incident, which occurred along a popular cycling route near the A24, has raised concerns about a spate of similar attacks targeting cyclists in London, Kent, and Surrey. Reports of masked motorbike riders targeting cyclists to rob them of their bikes have been on the rise in the area.
The cyclist, identified as Matt Farr, was cycling back to his home in Leatherhead after completing a lap of the iconic Box Hill climb. Despite hearing the sound of approaching motorbikes, he was caught off guard when he was violently pushed to the ground. Several passing cyclists and walkers came to his aid, reporting that the assailants were on motorbikes without number plates and their faces covered with bandanas or balaclavas.
Following the incident, the cyclist spent four days receiving treatment at East Surrey Hospital for injuries that included broken ribs, a punctured lung, a broken shoulder blade, concussion, and various cuts and bruises. Despite having a rear-facing camera on his bicycle, the police investigating the scene are facing challenges in identifying the perpetrators due to their concealed identities.
The assailants, who remain at large, have left the victim questioning the safety of cycling on secluded routes alone, with worries about future attacks lingering. The rise in such incidents targeting cyclists has prompted concerns among authorities and cycling communities about the need for increased vigilance and security measures to prevent further attacks.
Similar attacks on cyclists, including attempted bikejackings, have been reported in the surrounding areas of London, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures for cyclists. The motive behind these attacks remains unclear, with concerns growing about the vulnerability of cyclists on isolated routes in the region.
In response to the escalating threat, cycling organizations and authorities are urging cyclists to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves against potential attacks. The incidents have sparked a broader conversation about the safety of cyclists in the region and the need for collaborative efforts to ensure their protection while enjoying their rides.
As the investigation into the attack continues, the victim remains determined to recover from his injuries and resume cycling, underscoring the resilience and determination of cyclists in the face of such adversity. The community’s solidarity and support for the victim reflect a shared commitment to promoting a safe and secure environment for cyclists in the area.