A FATHER was punched in the stomach and fell to the floor in front of his wife and child after challenging a man for swearing on a train.

The 39-year-old, from Ladywell, was left with cuts and bruises after the attack on a train between London Bridge to New Cross.

The victim had rebuked a fellow passenger for his foul language which took place in front of his six-year-old daughter on August 24 at around 10.17pm.

He was then attacked in front of his family and other commuters had to pull the pair apart.

Police have now released CCTV images of a man – who is believed to have stepped off at Ladywell Station - they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

PC Alexandra O’Leary said: “This was a violent attack and must have been an intimidating experience for the victim’s family and many other passengers onboard.

“The victim boarded the 10.17pm Charing Cross to Hayes service at London Bridge with his family when he noticed a man shouting and swearing.

“The victim confronted the man about his behaviour which had taken place in front of his six-year-old daughter.

As a result the man punched the victim in the stomach, causing him to fall to the floor. Passengers onboard stepped in to pull the pair apart.

“The victim and his family left the service as it approached New Cross station, but the man stayed on. It is believed he left the service at Ladywell.”

Anyone who recognises the man is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background log B3/LSA of 06/11/2012. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

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