Race hate ordeal on train to Nelson: police appeal

The incident happened as the victim, a 33-year-old Asian man, travelled between Accrington and Nelson on Wednesday, August 29th.

The victim boarded the train at Accrington and noticed, soon after, that a man was glaring at him.

PC Tony Greenwood said: “The victim was minding his own business, and had been on his mobile phone, when he was approached by the man who accused him of staring.

“The victim tried to explain he hadn’t been staring, but the man became extremely abusive, making racist taunts and threatening to hurt him.”

Both the victim and the offender left the train at Nelson, though the victim stayed behind and spoke to rail staff as he feared for his safety.

PC Greenwood added: “No one should have to suffer the abuse and threatened violence directed at the rail passenger and we are determined to find the offender and bring him to justice.

“He is described as being white, about 5’ 11” and 20-25 years old. He had light brown, cropped hair, was stockily built, and at the time of the incident was wearing a white basketball vest and green and blue checked three-quarter length trousers.”

If you have any information about the incident, or recognise the man from the description, please contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. In all calls please quote background log B7/NWA of 04/09/12.