POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 42-year-old man was headbutted following a confrontation over queue-jumping at Chafford Hundred station.

The incident happened at approximately 5.20pm on Sunday, January 18, after a Southend-bound train had just left the station.

Detective Constable Sally Everritt, leading the investigation, said: “The victim and his wife were walking out of the station via the side gate because the main station building was closed. A short queue of passengers had formed as they ‘tapped-out’ using the Oyster card readers. However, one man in his early 20s jumped the queue.

“When the victim made a comment about this behaviour, he was headbutted by an older man – who claimed to be the queue-jumper’s father.

“The man suffered a nasty cut and a nose bleed.”

Officers are currently reviewing CCTV footage of the incident and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

DC Everritt added: “The aggressor is described as a white man, about 40-years-old, 5’9”, of stocky build, with short ginger or blond hair. He was wearing a blue jacket and jeans.

“The younger man is described as white, in his early 20s, 5’10”, slim build, with short fair hair. He was also wearing a blue jacket and light blue jeans.”

“I am keen to speak to anyone who was at Chafford Hundred station at the time and saw the assault. I’m also keen to hear from anyone who lives locally and recognises the descriptions of the two men.”

DC Everritt added: “Everyone has the right to use the rail network without the fear of violence or intimidation of any kind. We are doing all we can to find the man responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference B6/ESUB of 27/01/2015. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.