A MAN spat in the face of a train guard at Garswood station, British Transport Police say.

After reviewing CCTV of the incident that happened shortly after 3pm on Saturday, June 4, officers are issuing images of a man they want to speak to.

Investigating officer PC David Barnes said: “The train guard approached the man, who was travelling with a pregnant woman, during a routine ticket check. He offered to pay using a credit card which was declined.

He responded by becoming aggressive and abusive. As the guard was operating the doors at Garswood station the man attempted to headbutt him before spitting directly in his face.

“Quite understandably the victim felt intimidated by the man’s behaviour. This was a vile and wholly unacceptable attack on someone who was simply doing their job.

Rail staff should be able to carry out their duties without fear of violence or abuse. A saliva sample was collected following the incident, and officers are now working to try to identify the man.

“The man in the images is someone who I believe has information about this incident."

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference 206 of 29/06/2016.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.