Man asked train passenger to marry him, put his feet on her and then sexually abused her

An investigation was launched after a man proposed to a passenger on a train to Manchester Victoria, put his feet on her and then sexually assaulted her.

According to the British Transport Police (BTP), the victim was on a train heading towards Manchester city centre at around 11.52pm on 20 July when a man boarded the train at Farnworth station. He was sitting opposite her.

He then proposed marriage to her and “put his feet on her” before a passerby stepped in to help her, BTP added. As the train pulled into Victoria station, he allegedly sexually assaulted her.

READ MORE: Tragic tragedy: Woman dies after being pulled from water at Salford Quays

The suspect is said to have fled the scene. Detectives are investigating the incident and today (August 21) released surveillance images of a man they would like to speak to about the incident.

“Officers believe the man in the CCTV image may have information that could assist their investigation,” a BTP spokesman said in the appeal. Anyone who recognises him or has further information should come forward.

BTP can be contacted by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference number 4 of 21/07/24. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Read today's other top stories here