British Transport Police (BTP) have launched an investigation after a woman was sexually assaulted aboard a TransPennine Express service from Manchester Victoria to Redcar Central on 29 March 2025. The attack occurred around 9:00pm, approximately an hour into the 8:01pm train journey.
CCTV Image Released
A %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_0%% image of a man BTP believe holds vital information about the incident has now been released. Officers are %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%% to help identify him.
"We believe this %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%%. We %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%% forward," a BTP spokesperson said.
Anyone with information should contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 367 of 30 %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%%. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted via %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%% on 0800 555 111.
Details of the Assault
According to the victim's report, the man initially stared persistently at her before moving closer and committing a sexual assault. She managed to move away and alert authorities once the train arrived at its destination.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
This case reignites concern over %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_6%% on public transport, especially for female passengers travelling alone at night. The %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_7%% and Standards Board (RSSB) maintains that rail is generally safe, but assaults remain underreported and deeply traumatic for victims.
Northern Railway, which %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_8%% on this route, says it is working with police to review safety measures, including onboard CCTV, staff presence, and lighting at stations.
Support for Victims
%%UKNIP_ANCHOR_9%% available include:
- St. Mary's SARC (Manchester) – 0161 276 6515 (24-hour support)
- %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_10%% Rape Crisis – 0161 273 4500 (Confidential counselling for women 18+)
These services offer emotional and forensic support in the aftermath of sexual assault.
Public Called to Help
The %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_11%% are especially keen to speak to:
- Any passengers who were on the 8:01pm Manchester–Redcar service
- Anyone who may have %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_12%% footage or saw suspicious behaviour
- Anyone who recognises the individual from the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_13%%
According to %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_14%% Office statistics, public tips contribute to 30% of solved crimes, making community support essential.
Social Media Reactions
Online reaction has been swift, with users on X (formerly Twitter) urging people to check the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_15%% and help bring the perpetrator to justice.
"This is horrifying. Someone knows who he is—speak up," one post read.
