Can you help detectives investigate an incident on board a Central Line train where an elderly couple were assaulted?

The incident happened shortly before 10am on Saturday 6 May when a 63-year-old man and his 77-year-old wife were on board a Central Line train. As the service travelled between Bethnal Green and Liverpool Street they were approached by an unknown man.

The man then – without provocation – spat in the face of the woman. Her husband challenged this man’s action, however the violence escalated and he was pushed to the floor and kicked in the face by the offender. Other travellers then rushed to the aid of both victims as the offender left the service at Liverpool Street.

The male victim sustained minor injuries including cuts and bruising to his face. The woman was not injured.

The offender is a black man of slim build and approximately 6ft. He has black hair tied in knots and was wearing dark grey baggy tracksuit trousers, a dirty grey jumper and dark trainers.

Investigating officer DC Alban Barnes, said: “This was an utterly despicable assault. Neither of the victims provoked this man in any way and it beggar’s belief why he decided to assault them.

“If you know someone who matches this description then I would urge you to get in touch. Your information could be vital in our enquiries to trace the person responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to send a text to 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 231 of 06/05/2017. Alternatively, pass information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.