A PASSENGER without a ticket prised open a set of train doors and punched a conductor as he escaped at Bolton Rail Station.

British Transport Police has released an image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the assault.

The culprit was aboard a Northern Rail service that had pulled into the platform at Bolton's train station between 6.30am and 6.35am on Saturday December 19.

Investigating officer PC Daniel Naylor said: "A man boarded the train at Manchester Victoria station without a ticket.

"When the conductor approached him he became abusive and aggressive, swearing at her.

"The conductor held the train at Bolton Station waiting for police to arrive but the man prised open the doors, punching her on the shoulder as he pushed past her, before leaving the station through the ticket office.

"This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable.

"The conductor, who was simply doing her job, was left shaken up by what happened."

If you know the man pictured or have any information about the incident call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016 quoting reference PSUB/B3 of 25/01/2016 or speak anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.