A TRAIN passenger was tripped up and punched to the floor in a frightening attack in broad daylight.

The attack happened on Sunday, 20 September onboard the 6.50pm Southend Central to Fenchurch Street train as it travelled between Leigh-on-Sea and Benfleet.

Detective Constable David Bishop said: “A 24-year-old man boarded at Leigh and made his way through the carriage towards the toilet.

“As he did so, he passed two men who looked like they were in their thirties.

“One of them tripped the victim up.

“The victim turned to protest about this behaviour, but was confronted by the other man.

“He was then attacked by both men and punched to the floor of the carriage.”

The victim managed to scramble off the train at Benfleet, but had to attend hospital with a broken nose and cuts and bruises to his body.

Detectives are now appealing for anyone with information on the attack to come forward.

DC Bishop said: “We think there are people who were on the train who may have information about what happened.

“Perhaps you saw the incident, maybe you know who those responsible for this assault are.

“We need your help to find those responsible. Please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference ESUB/B3 of 25/09/2015. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.