Man treated for serious head injuries after assault on train at Smithy Bridge

CCTV image of two men who officers believe may be able to assist enquiries

A 34-year old man was treated for serious head injuries after being assaulted on a train at Smithy Bridge railway station on Monday (27 March).

Just after 9.30pm, officers from British Transport Police were called to the station following reports of an assault.

Police attended alongside paramedics and treated a man for serious head injuries. He was then taken to Salford Royal Hospital for further assessment.

It is believed that the victim was assaulted by two men on board the service.

The assault happened on board the 9.01pm Northern service from Manchester Victoria to Blackburn. At this stage, no arrests have been made.

Investigating officer DS Stephen Kite, said: “This was a horrific assault and the victim continues to receive treatment in hospital for a nasty head injury. Our investigation is in its early stages and at present we are very keen to understand the circumstances which led to this man being injured.

“If you were on the train and saw the assault then please make contact with us as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could help us piece things together.

“The behaviour of the two suspects who fled the area makes me believe they are not residents of Smithy Bridge. They seemed lost and confused so it is likely they intended to stay on the train until a later destination. Therefore, we would also like to appeal to people from Blackburn and other areas who may know who these men are."

British Transport Police have released a CCTV image of two men, who officers believe may be able to assist enquiries.

DS Kite added: “If you recognise these two men or have any information which may help our enquiries then I would urge you to contact us at soon as possible. Your information could be vitally important in our investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact BTP by sending a text to 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 572 of 27/03/2017. Alternatively, pass information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.