'Cyclists think they're the centre of the universe': Miranda star Patricia Hodge, 77, launches scathing attack after near collision with 'unforgivably rude' bike rider

Patricia Hodge has launched a scathing attack on cyclists after a near collision with an 'unforgivably rude' bike rider.

The Miranda actress said cyclists think they are at the centre of the world and it's having a negative effect on society.

The 77-year-old actress added that she feels she should speak out when she sees cyclists riding their bikes at high speeds but is often met with verbal abuse.

The actress also noted that cyclists rarely get pulled over by police for running a red light or riding without bike lights on. 

Hodge said: 'I can't tell you how many continue to ride their bikes at speed, with mothers having to swiftly move their buggies out of the way.

'I always make sure, though, to point out that the only reason they're angry is because they know I'm right she told Candis magazine.

Hodge lives near Hammersmith Bridge in west London and described one incident with an 'unforgivably rude but also dangerous' cyclist.

The actress, who recently starred opposite Nigel Havers in Noel Coward's Private Lives, described how she was crossing Portland Place in central London and almost collided with a cyclist as she crossed the road.

Despite the light being green for pedestrians, the cyclist continued anyway. 

When the actress challenged him, she said the biker 'flicked' her a rude hand gesture. 

'I just pointed at the green light for pedestrians and he called me the worst word in the English language.' she said.

The actress added that as she has got older she feels obligated to speak out against injustice and added that she feels good manners have declined despite her efforts to point them out.