A CAR driver has been threatened with a knife in an apparent road rage incident.

At about 10am on Tuesday, a man was driving his Ford Escort along Station Road, near the racecourse in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, when a small motorbike or moped came up close behind him.

It was going from one side of the car to the other, overtook him and then stopped and started again.

This continued along the A61 and on to the minor road to Masham. About three miles from Nosterfield, the car driver had to brake and the motorcyclist, who was close behind, was forced to brake heavily to avoid a collision.

At this point, the driver said the rider came alongside the car and banged on the window with what looked like a kitchen knife.

Later, the rider waved the knife as they went past Nosterfield Quarry. He or she rode off when the driver picked up his mobile to call police.

The bike was white and was either a low-powered motorcycle or a moped. The rider wore black leathers, boots and a black crash helmet.

Witnesses are asked to call 0845 606 0247.