Thames Valley Police officers in Oxfordshire were ‘alerted’ to a van travelling on the A34 displaying false registration plates this afternoon, Friday, April 10.

Police said that following a ‘tactical pursuit and containment’ the vehicle was brought to a stop.

READ MORE: M40 driver may lose licence after ‘blasting’ horn at police

Checks then revealed the van was uninsured and was showing multiple fault warning lights, making it dangerous to drive.

A spokesperson for the force said: “The vehicle has been seized and prohibited from further use until the defects are repaired. The driver will be reported for the relevant offences.”

It comes after a police operation on the M40 in Oxfordshire discovered 32 vehicles committing road safety offences on the same day, ranging from not wearing a seat belt to drug driving.

Jawaid Malik, from Oxford, has supported people through the Oxfordshire Shared Lives scheme for more than 20 years.

Since 2005, Mr Malik and his wife Rahat have cared for people in their own home, including one who is now nearing 40 years old.

Their work has been described as ‘unwavering’ and guided by kindness and grace.

Mr Malik, a magistrate and long-serving community volunteer, said: “It is humbling and a real honour to be appointed High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve local residents.

“Supporting people and giving back to the community has always been at the heart of what my family and I do, and I’m proud to be able to continue that service in this role.”

The couple began their Shared Lives journey in 2004 after responding to a local newspaper advert seeking carers for a young person who needed a long-term home.

Their wider family has played an active part in their caring, including their daughter, Sana, who has also become a Shared Lives carer.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Jawaid’s appointment as High Sheriff is richly deserved.

“His long-standing commitment to supporting people through Shared Lives, alongside his wider public service, perfectly reflects the values of compassion, community and leadership that this role represents.”

The High Sheriff is a ceremonial officer representing the King for matters of law and order within the county.

Although largely symbolic, the role supports the judiciary, police, and community organisations, and includes attending civic events and promoting voluntary and charitable work.

Each appointment lasts for one year, from April to April.

Rahat worked as a teaching assistant before retiring earlier this year.

She has said she hopes to continue helping others in new ways.

The people the family care for attend a local Community Support Service.

Staff have praised the couple for treating those they support ‘as if they are their own family’.

Oxfordshire County Council continues to encourage new carers to join the Shared Lives scheme.

The council said: “Jawaid’s appointment as High Sheriff recognises not only his formal public service, but also the quieter, long‑term commitment shown through opening his home and family life to others – reflecting the values at the heart of the Shared Lives scheme.”

The crash occurred on the A417 Reading Road in East Hendred, near Wantage, on Thursday, April 9 at about 7.20pm.

Police say it involved a silver Volkswagen Golf and a pedestrian, and they were called to the scene by South Central Ambulance Service.

Sadly the pedestrian, a man his 70s, died on the scene of the collision.

Thames Valley Police said the man’s family has been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

READ MORE: Pedestrian died in East Hendred crash with Volkswagen Golf

Investigating officer detective sergeant Oliver Cahill‑Smith, from the serious collision investigation unit, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the loved ones of the man who tragically lost his life in this collision.

“We are investigating this collision as a priority and would urge anyone who witnessed the incident to get in touch.”

No arrests have yet been made and the police are urging anyone with information to get in touch, quoting reference number 43260172791.

The Oxford Mail has opened a book of condolence, inviting people to leave their tributes to the man who sadly lost his life in the crash.