A MAN has been charged with attempted murder after a cyclist suffered life-changing leg injuries.

At around 5.20am, emergency services were called to reports of an altercation near Reading Girls’ School on Northumberland Avenue.

The victim, a 37-year-old man, who was on a bicycle, was struck by a car and sustained serious and life-changing leg injuries.

He is currently in a serious condition in hospital.

Mark Whittaker, aged 45, of no fixed abode, was arrested in connection with the incident.

On Saturday morning, he was charged with one count of attempted murder, one count of driving while over the prescribed limit, one count of driving while disqualified, one count of driving with no third-party insurance and one count of possession of a pointed/bladed article.

He appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court and he was remanded to appear at Reading Crown Court on November 12.

Detective inspector Dave Turton, of Force CID at Reading, said: “Our investigations are ongoing, but we believe the victim and the offender are known to each other.

“I appreciate the concern this will cause in the local community, but we believe this to be an isolated incident and a man is currently in custody.

“I am appealing for anyone who believes that they witnessed the incident, or who has dash-cam or CCTV footage from around 5.20am, to call the 24-hour 101 number, quoting reference 43180311807.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ and provide all the details there.

“You will notice an increased police presence in the area while our investigation continues. If you have any concerns, or information, please speak to one of our officers.”

The road was closed between Cressingham Road and Canterbury Road for several hours to allow police to carry out their enquiries.

Reading Girls' School made the decision to close the site on Friday.