A DRIVING instructor was verbally abused and then assaulted by another motorist in Ilminster.

The driving instructor drove into a layby in Ditton Street at about 11.30am on Monday, April 7, after she said another vehicle had begun driving very closely behind her, flashing its lights.

Police say the driver of the other vehicle, a burgundy-coloured car thought to be a Ford Fiesta, followed the victim and parked in the layby.

The motorist, a man, was said to have got out of the car and began shouting offensive language at the driving instructor before pushing her.

It is believed there were other people in the area at the time who may have witnessed the incident, and police are appealing for anyone who may have any information which could help with their inquiries to come forward.

If you can help, call PC Helen O’Neill at the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 101, quoting crime reference 35066/14, or if you want to remain anonymous call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800- 555111.