POLICE have issued a CCTV image as part of an ongoing sexual assault probe after a man was allegedly sexually assaulted while sleeping on a train.

Detectives looking into an alleged sexual assault on board a train have released a CCTV image in connection with the investigations.

The incident happened at about 7.30pm on Monday, March 4.

The British Transport Police say a man was travelling to Colchester on the train from London Liverpool Street.

He reportedly woke up to find a man next to him sexually assaulting him.

Gazette: Concerned - city centre councillor Steph NissenConcerned - city centre councillor Steph Nissen (Image: Newsquest)

City centre councillor Steph Nissen said: “I’m horrified and deeply saddened by this serious incident.

“Sadly, it is not an isolated incident and the reduction of staff on board means such disgusting attacks do happen.

“Passengers must be safe using our trains, to experience such a horrendous assault while travelling is abhorrent.”

Ms Nissen continued: “I expect Greater Anglia to fully assist with the investigation, and I strongly urge anyone with any information to pass it to the British Transport Police or Crimestoppers.

“I’d remind people to always exercise caution when using public transport.”

Detectives have released a CCTV image of a man in the image who they believe may have information that could help their investigation.

A spokesman said: “Anyone who recognises this man is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference number 325 of March 5.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Gazette: Site - Colchester stationSite - Colchester station (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: Detectives would like to speak to this who they believe may have information that could help their investigation (Image: British Transport Police)Detectives would like to speak to this who they believe may have information that could help their investigation (Image: British Transport Police) (Image: Essex Police)
It is not the first incident at the Colchester station.

Just last month, train passengers endured travel disruption after police were called to reports of a man acting "suspiciously". 

Essex Police officers were sent to Colchester station shortly after 2pm before train services came to a halt. 

The force is said to have received reports of a man acting suspiciously on board a train.

Officers quickly arrived and carried out a search but no one matching the description of the man given to us by the person who reported the incident could be located.

As a result of the incident Greater Anglia trains through Colchester were delayed until 3.50pm.