A 16-YEAR-OLD girl was subjected to a "disturbing" attack on a train from Manchester Oxford Road to Horwich Parkway.

The young girl got on the train at Oxford Road on March 28 when, at about 9pm, a man approached her in the first class carriage and stradled her.

The man, who appeared to be travelling with a group of friends, had been sitting in front of the victim on a table seat.

Another passenger tried to intervene, telling the man to leave the victim alone, but he then became abusive and started swearing and insulting her.

Police, who described the incident as "disturbing", are urging the man, pictured, or anyone who recognises him to come forward and help police with their enquiries.

PC Kirsty Hansell, from British Transport Police, said: “The young girl was extremely distressed by the man’s actions and was left feeling scared.

"The man had previously approached at least two other passengers in the same manner.

“This incident has left both victims fearful of travelling unaccompanied on the railway.

"Behaviour like this which frightens and intimidates other passengers will not be tolerated.

“We need to speak to anyone who saw what happened. Please get in touch.”

Anyone with information can call police on 0800 405040, or text 61016, quoting reference PSUB/B7 of 01/05/2015, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.