Police seek fan over sex assault

WANTED . . . Police wish to speak to this man over an allegation of sexual assault

DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after an on-duty senior conductor was sexually assaulted on a train — allegedly by an Oldham Athletic fan.

British Transport Police have released CCTV footage of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the incident, which happened on Saturday, April 2.

A group of around 15 men — believed to be Oldham fans returning from the Notts County away fixture — boarded the 5.55pm train from Nottingham to Liverpool at Nottingham station, and they began to swear and verbally assault a passenger.

Det Sgt Bill Henry said: “A member of rail staff asked the group to behave or advised they would be escorted from the service.

“As she turned around, one of the group inappropriately touched her causing alarm and distress.”

Officers met the train at Sheffield and several members of the group were escorted from the train.

DS Henry added: "Rail staff should be able to go about their job without fear of an attack such as this.

"This was a particularly upsetting experience for the member of staff, and we will do all we can to identify those involved.

“If anyone recognises the man, I’d ask you to contact police as a matter of urgency.

"We believe the men were all Oldham fans returning from the Notts County fixture at Meadow Lane."

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B13/NEA of 18/05/2011.

Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.