A hit and run motorist who knocked a teenage motorcyclist off his bike on the Marlow bypass committed a “very serious offence” say police as they search for the driver.

Police say the 16-year-old rider was lucky to be alive after an unknown vehicle drove into the back of his red and black Aprilia motorbike on the A404 between Marlow and the Berkshire border on Friday at around 9.55pm.

The vehicle then drove away without stopping.

After being thrown from the bike, the boy was treated at Wexham Park Hospital for a fractured elbow and other cuts and bruises.

Investigating officer PC Sarah Phillips from Amersham Roads Policing said: “This is a very serious offence.

“The rider of the motorcycle was lucky to escape with just these injuries and this incident could have easily resulted in fatal injuries.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or saw the motorcyclist on the road to come forward and assist with our enquiries.

“I would also like to appeal to the driver of the vehicle to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 101.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111