Detectives are appealing for a have-a-go hero who intervened during an assault on a cyclist to come forward.

The officers are asking for the woman who came to the cyclist's aid offering First Aid, to contact them.

The woman's intervention stopped what police called “a particularly horrible attack” on the cyclist.

The assault happened in Meath Green Lane, Horley, on Tuesday, June 15, at about 8.30pm.

Police said a 21-year-old man was cycling along the road when a Ford Mondeo blocked his path.

A passenger, described as a black man, then got out of the car and attacked the cyclist, knocking him off his bike to the ground and continuing to punch him while he was down.

It was then that a passing motorist pulled up behind the Mondeo and a woman got out offering First Aid to the cyclist.

The attacker, at this point, got back into the car and drove off.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Dale Brunt, said: "This was a particularly horrible attack and if it wasn't for the actions of this lady, I fear the situation would have become much more serious.”

Det Con Brunt said: “I would like this brave lady to contact me urgently as I believe she has vital information which will ensure justice is done for the cyclist.

"I would also appeal to anyone who was in Meath Green Lane, Horley, at the time of the assault, or who has any information they think maybe relevant to this investigation, to come forward."

Officers made extensive house-to-house enquires in the area afterwards, but Det Con Brunt said the “Good Samaritan's” information could make all the difference to the case.

Anyone with information should call Reigate CID on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference RB/10/4930, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

A 28-year-old Horley man has been charged with assault.

Mark Shaw, of Southlands Avenue, Horley, has been remanded in custody and will appear in court on August 4.