Passenger, 45, attacked after confronting train hooligan

British Transport Police officers are appealing for information after the 45-year-old victim who confronted the man was attacked at Halifax station.

Investigators have also released closed circuit TV images of the man they would like to talk to in connection with the incident.

Investigating officer Pc Gavin Lawrence said the incident took place outside the entrance of Halifax station at around 10.30pm on April 9. Details of the CCTV images were released yesterday.

Pc Lawrence said: "The victim, a 45-year-old from Brighouse, was making his way home on the 10.03pm Leeds to Halifax service when he saw the man throwing empty beer cans out of the train window, acting rowdily and being abusive towards other passengers.

"Both men left the service at Halifax station, where the victim approached the man and questioned his actions during the journey.

"An altercation then took place between the two men, resulting in the victim being punched three times, twice to the face and once to the head."

The victim later attended Bradford Royal Infirmary, where he required stitches and plastic surgery for injuries to his gum and nose.

It is believed the attacker also mentioned working for a charity during the train journey.

PC Lawrence added: "The victim was attacked simply for questioning the passenger's anti-social behaviour and I am appealing for anyone with any information about this incident to come forward.

"We have spoken to witnesses at the scene and images of the suspect have been distributed to officers from British Transport Police and West Yorkshire Police. We are continuing to make local inquiries into the incident and are also asking anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV images to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP on Freefone 0800 405040 quoting reference number B6 of 01/07/2010. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.