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British Transport Police appeal for witnesses after train guard assaulted ^ Newton Abbot / Totnes

Officers from British Transport Police (BTP) are appealing for witnesses and information after a member of rail staff was assaulted on board a train as it travelled between Newton Abbot and Totnes rail stations.

The incident took place shortly after 8pm on Monday, 20 May, on board the 1100hrs Glasgow Central ^ Penzance service.

Investigating officer, PC Steve Campbell, said: ^A male passenger had lost his ticket after boarding the train at Newton Abbot station. While purchasing a new ticket, he repeatedly swore at the guard before kicking him. The offender left the train at the next station, Totnes. Although uninjured, the 39-year-old guard was shaken by the man^s behaviour.

^Enquiries are ongoing and I am today appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who knows the identity of the man who assaulted the guard, to come forward. The offender is described is white, in his early 40s, about 5ft 6in and of stocky build. He was wearing a green jumper, blue jeans and black shoes. It is believed he may have attended Newton Abbot Races prior to the incident and was travelling with a group of other men on board the train.^

If you have any information which you think could assist, please contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.  In all calls, please quote incident reference 517 of 20/05/13.