Police appeal after train guard assaulted near Penyffordd

Officers have released CCTV images of a person they believe may have information about the incident, which took place around 9.30pm on Friday, 9 August, on a train approaching Penyffordd rail station in Flintshire.

Investigating officer PC Dave Hall said: “As the train guard was carrying out a routine ticket check, he was verbally abused by a man when asked for his ticket. The passenger then subjected him to a nasty assault before leaving the train at Penyffordd station.

“This was an unprovoked attack on a member of staff simply doing his job. The incident left the victim in a distressed and vulnerable state.”

Having viewed CCTV footage, officers have identified a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

He is described as around 5ft 10in to 6ft, of slight build with short, light brown hair. He was wearing a blue shirt, light grey trousers and black shoes, and spoke with a local accent. It is believed he boarded the train at Buckley before alighting at Penyffordd.

“We’ve made a number of enquiries to try to identify this man, but to no avail,” said PC Hall.

“Therefore, I would ask anyone who recognises him to come forward, as we believe he may have information which could prove vital to the investigation.

“BTP will not tolerate aggression of any kind towards railway staff and we will do everything possible to track down the offender and bring him to justice.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may recognise the man pictured to contact police.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B6/WQA of 04/09/2013. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.