Arrest made after road rage assault hospitalises pensioner

Police are appealing for witnesses after a driver attacked a pensioner who told him off for using his mobile phone at the wheel.

The 88-year-old victim was walking in The Square, Findon, on Wednesday (November 20) at 5.15pm when he saw a black car driving through the village.

He waved his finger at the motorist and when the car stopped nearby, the pensioner tapped on the window and told the man he should not be on the phone while driving.

The driver got out of the car and pushed the pensioner over. The victim suffered a suspected fractured hip and was taken to Worthing Hospital for treatment.

Detective Inspector Andy Westwood said: “The victim was assaulted simply for telling the driver he was committing an offence and putting people in danger by being on the phone.

“Anyone caught on their phone while driving gets given three points on their licence and a fine of £100 but if they go to court they can be banned from the road and fined up to £1,000.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who saw the attack or the black car being driven in the area. This is an assault on an elderly gentleman and the assistance from people who may have witnessed this incident will help in bringing an offender to justice.”

A 62-year-old man from Littlehampton was arrested on suspicion of assault.

He was questioned before being released on bail until December 18.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 1104 of 20/11, email [email protected] or call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

Sussex Police is running an operation this week aimed at tackling drivers who are using mobile phones at the wheel.

To report antisocial driving visit www.operationcrackdown.co.uk or call 101.