THE hunt is on for a man who uttered sexually suggestive comments to a frightened female passenger before groping her.

The pervert launched his attack on a train traveling between Preston and Blackburn at around 3.40pm on Monday, March 23.

Transport police yesterday released a picture of a man who they want to speak to in the hope Lancashire Telegraph readers can help bring the woman's attacker to justice.

Investigating officer PC Peter Riley said: “The victim boarded the train at Preston and took a seat.

"She was then approached by a man who asked to sit next to her, despite there being plenty of empty seats in the carriage.

"The man then started making suggestive comments to the victim and patted her leg.

"When she asked him to let her out of the seat he subjected her to a tirade of foul verbal abuse.

"She ignored the man and he eventually moved away and left the train at Blackburn.”

Officers believe the man in the image could have vital information about the incident and have urged him or anyone who recognises him to come forward to help with their enquiries.

PC Riley said: “This was a frightening experience for the victim. She was left shaken and upset and it is vital we find the man responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference PSUB/B16 of 08/04/2015.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.