Appeal after racist abuse on Rotherham train

An Asian couple complained to the train’s conductor over the incident which took place between 10.13am and 10.54am last Saturday.

The couple and the two men left the train at Rotherham Station before police arrived.

Investigating officer Pc Richard Ward from British Transport Police said: “The two men boarded the train at Doncaster and then began to shout and chant racial abuse.

“An Asian couple on the train approached the conductor to complain. The racial abuse was also heard by rail staff who then contacted police.”

Pc Ward added: “We don’t believe the words were aimed at anyone particular onboard however this is irrelevant—the language used was vulgar and offensive and it is completely unacceptable.

“Everyone has the right to go to travel without fear of abuse or threatening behaviour, and when that behaviour is further exacerbated by racist undertones, our stance becomes firmer still.

“The Asian couple and the two men all left the service at Rotherham before the arrival of the police.

“We would like to trace anyone who was on the train who may have witnessed this incident and we would particularly like to speak to the Asian couple who complained to the train conductor about the men’s behaviour.”

Please contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting log 606 of 09/06/2012.

Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.