A MAN was left with a broken nose after being headbutted by a stranger on a train travelling to Hull.
Police are appealing for witnesses after the 51-year-old man from Goole, was attacked on the 7.47pm York to Hull service on Saturday, August 24.
Passengers who witnessed the assault are being asked by police to come forward with any information.
PC Stewart Rankin is leading the investigation into the attack.
He said: "The victim, a 51-year-old man from the Goole area, was travelling with his wife on the train.
"As the train approached Howden station, they both got up and stood at the rear doors in the front carriage ready to depart.
"A man then approached the victim and without any warning or provocation he headbutted him a number of times in the face and head.
"The victim sustained cuts to his face, severe bruising and a suspected broken nose.
"The train then arrived into the station and the attacker left the service, climbed in to a silver Range Rover and drove away from the station."
The man wanted by police is described as white, about 30 years old, 5ft 9in, of medium build and with mousey brown hair. He was wearing a black jacket, pale pink shirt and black trousers and shoes.
PC Rankin said: "It is likely that there were a lot of passengers on the train when this incident took place and I would ask anyone who witnessed what happened to come forward.
"Your information could be vital to the investigation.
"I would also like to hear from anyone who may recognise the man and vehicle from the description."
PC Rankin is reminding train passengers that attacks like the one on the Hull train are very rare.
He said: "We believe this is an isolated incident but need the public's help to trace the man in question."
Anyone with informationshould call British Transport Police on 0800 405040, quoting background reference B12/NEA of 28/08/2013. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
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