POLICE have launched an investigation after a cyclist was 'racially abused' and nearly pulled off his bike.

Officers were called at around 11.30pm yesterday, Thursday, by a man involved in an incident in Chester Road, Hartford, just 45 minutes earlier.

The man, who had been cycling along the road, claimed an unknown man had tried to pull him off his bike while hurling racist abuse at him.

The victim was able to get away on his bike and did not report any injuries from the incident.

A Cheshire Police spokeswoman appealed for anyone with information to get in touch.

She said: "On Thursday, August 8, at around 11.30pm, police were contacted by a man who had been cycling on Chester Road, Hartford, at approximately 10.45pm.

"He reported an unknown man attempted to pull him off his bike and shouted racial abuse towards him.

"Thankfully the victim managed to cycle away and there were no reports of any injuries.

"The suspect was described as being 5ft 8in, wearing a black top and a white baseball cap.

"Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police quoting IML-1890663."