Shocking video shows moment car nearly hits cyclist on Chesterfield street

Stephen Allen told how he was cycling from his home in Staveley to Sheffield on Saturday when a driver failed to stop at a stop junction and turned the corner without looking to his right - nearly hitting the 44-year-old father.

Mr Allen, who captured the shocking incident on his helmet camera, said: "I just couldn't believe what happened.

"It's scary to think people like this are on the roads.

"I'm a keen cyclist and I've had several near misses - this one was very close.

"It could have been a completely different story."

Mr Allen reported the incident - which happened in Old Whittington - to Derbyshire Constabulary and sent the force his footage.

However, officers initially sent him a message saying, 'we wouldn't be able to progress this without an independent witness - we unfortunately can't take footage on its own'.

Mr Allen said he felt this was 'ridiculous' so got in touch with the Derbyshire Times - which subsequently questioned Derbyshire Constabulary about the situation.

Superintendent Simon Tunnicliffe said: "As a keen cyclist myself, I can see from the footage why Mr Allen was extremely angered and concerned about this incident.

"Under normal circumstances, video footage from a private camera alone would not be sufficient evidence to prosecute a driver for this type of offence where no collision takes place.

"To have a realistic chance of a prosecution, we would normally require the additional evidence of an independent witness.

"This video footage is, however, very compelling.

"It appears that the driver was completely unaware of the cyclist he almost collided with, despite driving conditions and visibility appearing to be fine.

"Because of this, we will attempt to trace the driver and speak to him.

"Our officers will contact Mr Allen to ensure he is fully aware of any ongoing police action."

Commenting on Supt Tunnicliffe's statement, Mr Allen said: "Brilliant - a step in the right direction.

"I'm more at ease that the police will be at the least speaking to the driver.

"I'd like to thank the Derbyshire Times for their concern and support.

"They really have got behind me and got us to this stage and for that I am truly grateful."

Visit HERE for police advice on how motorists should behave around cyclists.