A MAN was forced to fling himself into a hedge after a driver who smashed into his car deliberately drove at him.

Simon Bevis was watching the Live Earth concert on television at his Charminster home early on Sunday morning when he heard a bang outside.

He said: "My car is parked outside so I looked out of the window to see a car reversing out from the side of my car so I rushed outside and tried to stop them but the driver charged at me and I had to jump into the hedge.

"The car, a dark-coloured Ford Ka, stopped further up the road but I couldn't see the registration.

"I am pretty shaken up by the whole incident. They have done a lot of damage to my car and the police found debris and a wheel trim from the other car so it must be damaged too."

Mr Bevis said that the Ford had driven along Weir View from North Street in the village towards the A37. He said that friends had estimated that it would cost at least £3,500 to repair the car, a BMW, but because he was only insured third party it was all but a write-off.

"It's a quiet road. You don't expect things like this to happen. I hope someone who knows who is responsible reports them," said Mr Bevis.

Insp Les Fry of Dorchester police said: "We are aware of the incident. Officers are making inquiries and I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or with information to contact PC Janine Moon, who is dealing with the incident.

"The Ford Ka must have suffered substantial damage and I would urge anyone who sees a car fitting the description that has been damaged to get in touch too."

Call PC Moon on 01305 222222.