CCTV: man attacked on hot train for opening window

AN OFF-DUTY rail worker was attacked on a hot train which had just left Elsenham station because he opened a window. British Transport Police (BTP) has now issued CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the assault which happened o

AN OFF-DUTY rail worker was attacked on a "hot" train which had just left Elsenham station because he opened a window.

British Transport Police (BTP) has now issued CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the assault which happened on Sunday November 8.

A 37-year-old rail staff employee from Cambridge, who had just finished his shift, was punched in the face after opening a carriage window on the 12.44am train from Bishop's Stortford to Cambridge.

Investigating officer PC Paul Campbell said: "It was hot on the train and so the victim opened the window above his head to let in some air.

"A man in the carriage objected to this and told the victim that he was making the carriage cold. About two minutes later, as the train had left Elsenham, the man struck the victim in the face and cut his lip.

"The victim then took refuge in the driver's cabin and observed his attacker leave the train at Newport station."

The attacker is described as a white man, aged in his late 20s, of medium build, around 6ft tall and with short hair. He was wearing a striped scarf, a charcoal-coloured jacket and a light coloured shirt.

"This was a nasty assault that stemmed from a simple disagreement over the opening of a window," added PC Campbell.

"This wasn't a busy service and instead of moving to another carriage, the man decided instead to assault his victim, causing injury to his face in the process.

"Such behaviour is totally unacceptable and I would encourage anyone who recognises the man pictured to come forward and talk to us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP on 0800 40 50 40. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.