Police are appealing for witnesses to a 'particularly nasty attack' on a member of train staff at Eastbourne rail station.

The attack on the station concourse started with the suspect shouting and swearing, before grabbing the member of staff around the neck.

PC Pete Cooke from British Transport Police (BTP) Brighton said: "Other members of staff assisted and pulled the attacker away from the staff member, who managed to escape very shaken but fortunately uninjured.

"The attacker left the station in a taxi shortly after the incident."

Officers have conducted a number of enquiries, including viewing CCTV from various locations along the route and locating other witnesses.

BTP officers have released images of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the incident, which took place between 6.20pm and 6.30pm on May 26.

They particularly want to speak to the man pictured, or anyone who recognises him, as he is believed to have information which could assist the investigation.

PC Cooke added: “This was a busy time of day and I am hopeful many people saw this incident take place and can assist us with our enquiries.

“This member of staff was simply trying to do his job and was subjected to this unprovoked attack.”

Southern’s head of security and revenue protection, Stella Morris said: “This was a particularly nasty attack on our staff member who was just doing his job.

"No one should be subjected to this kind of unacceptable behaviour and we hope that people will come forward and identify this man to BTP.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 or by text on 61016, quoting reference B8/LSA of 20/06/13 or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.