CCTV issued after train passenger peppered with abuse as police investigate hate crime

Police have released a CCTV image after a passenger was peppered with 'violent' Islamophobic abuse on a train heading to Greater Manchester. British Transport Police (BTP) wants to speak to the man pictured in connection with the incident.

It follows an alleged hate crime that took place on an Avanti West Coast service from Glasgow to London, which stops at Wigan North Western and Warrington Bank Quay along the way. BTP says passengers on board the train overheard the abuse while at Penrith railway station, in Cumbria.

The incident took place at around 8.20pm on October 27 last year. According to BTP, eyewitnesses heard 'distressing and threatening Islamophobic and violent rhetoric'.

The force is investigating the incident as an Islamophobic hate crime, and anyone who recognises the man pictured is urged to come forward. A BTP spokesperson added: "Officers would like to speak to the man in the image as they believe he may have information which could help with their investigation.

"Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 106 of October 28. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."