COPS are appealing for information after a ticket machine was vandalised at Leigh train station.

The ticket machine was damaged sometime between 8.45pm and 10pm on December 27, the front screen of a ticket vending machine had been broken.

Officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) have interviewed station staff, checked CCTV footage and spoken to local police teams but have been unable to find the culprit.

Now PC Ian Anderson, based at BTP Southend, is appealing for any members of the public who might have information about who is responsible to come forward.

He said: “The front screen of the ticket machine was smashed using a plastic floor sign.

“It is believed that the damage was caused by a group of around 12 youths or teenagers, both male and female.

“No items or money was stolen during this incident, but nevertheless this was a mindless act of vandalism, and the damage left by those responsible is extremely costly to the railway.

“Not only did it cause inconvenience to those passengers wishing to use it the next day, but c2c had to replace the machine.

“I’d urge anyone who has any information about this incident, to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016 quoting LNA/B4 of 28/01/2014. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.