Police are appealing for information after a gay couple were verbally assaulted on a train.

Officers from the British Transport Police would like to speak to the man pictured in connection with the homophobic verbal assault on a train between Shoebury and London on 7 May.

At around 7.40pm, a man approached two men and verbally assaulted them with homophobic comments as he sat next to them.

He then continued to mock them by rubbing one of the victim’s thighs and making offensive remarks about gay people. 

The victims then left their seats and got off the train at Chalkwell because they felt unsafe. 

Detective Sergeant Hayley Whyte said: “Everyone has the right to travel without fear or intimidation and nobody should be subjected to offensive or homophobic language.

"I am keen to speak to anyone who was on the service and saw this incident.”

Officers would like to speak to the men in these images as they believe they may be able to help them with their enquiries.

Text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting  380 of 1 June, if they look familiar or you have any information that could help our investigation. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.