The victim was sexually assaulted while looking for a seat on board the rail service
22:14, 19 Feb 2026Updated 22:14, 19 Feb 2026
Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to who may have information about the sex attack.(Image: BTP)
A CCTV appeal has been issued after a woman was sexually assaulted on a train to Manchester Airport. Detectives from British Transport Police have launched an investigation into the incident on New Year’s Day.
At around 10.45pm on January 1 it was reported that a woman had been sexually assaulted. The incident occurred on board while she looked for a seat after boarding the service from Leeds to Manchester Airport.
British Transport Police have now released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to who they believe could help with their investigation.
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Anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the man in the picture is being urged to contact police immediately amid ongoing investigations.
An appeal shared by the force read: “Detectives investigating a sexual assault on a train have released this image in connection. At around 10.45pm on Thursday 1 January, a woman was sexually assaulted as she looked for a seat after boarding a service from Leeds to Manchester Airport.
“Detectives believe the man in the image may have information that could help their investigation. Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 671 of 1 January. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”