Media claims that a masked biker gang rampaged over Applegreen’s forecourt site in Streatham, south London, in scenes likened to a Mad Max film, have been dismissed by Applegreen’s UK boss Michael O’Loughlin.

Although some fuel and drinks and snacks were stolen he described it as “a storm in a teacup”, adding: “We definitely didn’t get attacked. The majority of the guys purchased some fuel and shop goods and moved on. Social media has just sensationalised the situation because of the large Hollywood-style cavalcade of the bikers.”

However, police are appealing for information and mobile phone footage after a large group on motorbikes, scooters, mopeds and quad bikes, some of whom were wearing Halloween masks, committed a range of offences as they travelled through south London.

The group is believed to have organised the ride on social media, and it began in Lambeth shortly after 6pm, and proceeded to Lewisham, Bromley, Greenwich and Croydon.

The group were riding dangerously, mounting the pavement, committing criminal damage and behaving in an anti-social manner.

At approximately 8.30pm, part of the group stopped at the Applegreen site in Streatham High Road. By the time police arrived most of the gang had left but they arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of making off without payment and driving not in accordance with a licence. He has now been bailed to a date in mid-November.

Superintendent Liam Harrington said: “This group behaved in an utterly reckless manner, committing criminal damage and endangering themselves, other road users and pedestrians.

“Although there have been no reported injuries, my officers are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the offences committed and work to bring those involved to justice.

“If anyone knows the identity of those involved or has footage of riders with their faces or registration numbers visible, then I would urge them to share that information and material with us.”

Anyone with information which can assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.