A man from Eastbourne who claimed he had been stabbed in a vicious road rage attack inflicted the injuries on himself, it has emerged.

The 58-year-old Eastbourne man told police he had been attacked after being followed by a car full of men for 15 miles.

At the time detective inspector Neil Ralph, from Wealden District CID, described the incident as "a nasty attack”.

However the man has now confessed that the incident never occurred and the injuries were self inflicted.

The man had originally told police that his Honda had been tailgated by a red Vauxhall car from High Street, Heathfield, south along the A267 at 10.15pm on Thursday.

He said the car was flashing its lights and using full-beam headlights for long periods.

He told police he had pulled over close to the turn-off for Hellingly and that the driver and a passenger had got out from the other car, while a third man stayed inside.

The man then described an argument and said the Vauxhall driver had stabbed him.

Sussex Police launched an appeal for witnesses of the incident but the man has since confessed it never happened.

He has been dealt with for wasting police time.

Det Insp Neil Ralph said: "I would like to pass on my thanks to the members of the public who assisted with the enquiry.''

Do you know the man? Call the newsdesk on 01273 544538 or email emily.elliott@theargus.co.uk