A MAN was menaced in an Oxford street by three men who threw cones at him and drove a van towards him.

The 35-year-old victim was chased in Cowley Road near the City Arms pub, Thames Valley Police said, and one of the offenders was also believed to have been carrying an axe.

They also drove a maroon transit van towards him, TVP said, but he escaped unharmed.

The force said it has made three arrests in connection with the incident on Thursday, which happened at about 3pm.

A 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man from Oxford were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and a 27-year-old man from Oxford was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

All three have been released on bail until March 19.

Investigating officer Det Sgt Kevin Parsons said it was believed the victim knew his attackers.

He said: “I would like to reassure the public that this was not a random attack.  We believe that the victim was known to the offenders.

“However I would be grateful to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information about the offence.”