A MAN who jokingly asked to check tickets on an Oxford-bound train was punched twice in the face in an assault that left him with cuts and a pair of broken glasses.

British Transport Police said most travellers laughed off the joke but one man took exception and attacked him.

Police have now released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in relation to the assault.

The attack happened shortly after midnight on Friday, April 18, after the victim boarded the train at London Paddington.

Pc David McNelis, who is investigating the assault, said: “This was a nasty attack which left the victim with cuts to his face.

“We have examined CCTV footage of the incident and are issuing images of a man we would like to speak to in connection with the assault.

“Footage from cameras at Didcot Parkway station shows the man leaving the train with a woman in a pink blouse shortly after 1.15am. I would ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who recognises the man in the pictures to contact us.

“All passengers have the right to travel without the fear of violence and we will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice.”

Anyone with information should call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

  • Top News

Our top stories: