A rail worker at Clapham Junction station was punched in the head after a confrontation about a passenger taking a bicycle on a train.

British Transport Police have launched an appeal after the assault at 4.15pm on Wednesday, May 13.

A man boarded a London Overground train to Highbury and Islington and was approached by a member of staff who said he could not travel with his bicycle during peak times.

After the man challenged the staff member, he was told he could travel with his bicycle if he moved to the rear of the train.

The staff member asked the man to walk along the platform rather than wheeling his bicycle through the train, at which point, the cyclist became aggressive and assaulted the rail worker.

The cyclist then left the station and cycled to Wandsworth Road station.

Detective Constable Denis Mahoney said: “The victim was punched in the head. He sustained several cuts, including one above his eye which required stitches.

“I would like to reassure the public this type of incident is rare, with figures showing just one incident of violent crime per million passengers on trains at Clapham Junction.

“However, that does not change the fact that this was a disgraceful assault on a member of staff who was just trying to do his job.

“We have spoken to witnesses to the incident and placed posters at Clapham Junction station.”

DC Mahoney added officers would like to speak to the man pictured, who would be able to assist with enquiries.

Anyone with information should call British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016, quoting reference SSUB/B12 of 29/05/2015.

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