BRITISH Transport Police are appealing for information after a member of rail staff was racially abused and threatened in Burnley.

Officers said the incident happened on Thursday, July 24, on board the 7.23am Colne to Blackpool South service as it travelled between Burnley Central and Burnley Rose Grove.

PC Chris Haughton said: “A man boarded the train at Burnley Central and became verbally abusive when the train guard, a 47-year-old Asian man from Blackpool, asked to see his ticket.

“During this abuse, the man also threatened the guard, telling him he would knock him out.”

Following the incident, the offender left the train at Rose Grove, suggesting he may be local to the Burnley area.

PC Haughton added: “The train guard was simply trying to do his job and certainly should not have been subjected to any form of abuse or threats of violence.

“Crime on the rail network, particularly violence, is rare and BTP is committed to further reducing crime and protecting rail staff who provide a public service.”

The aggressive man is described as white, in his 60s, about 5ft 8ins tall, of skinny build with untidy hair and unkempt facial hair.

At the time of the incident he was wearing a long sleeved grey, checked, knitted jumper with a collar and dirty, scruffy jeans.

PC Haughton said: “I am calling on anyone who recognises this description, or who has information about the incident to come forward.”

If you can help, please call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or ring Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

In all calls, please quote log PSUB/B7 of 31/7/14.