DETECTIVES investigating a serious assault on a train have released CCTV images in their appeal for information.

A man suffered a deep cut on his lip that required stitches after a boy repeatedly punched him in the head.

The victim boarded a train at Manchester Piccadilly at 8.06pm on Saturday, February 18.

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During his journey, he had a verbal altercation with a boy who was speaking loudly on his mobile phone.

Knutsford Guardian: Do you recognise him?Do you recognise him? (Image: British Transport Police)

The victim then moved down the train to alight at Holmes Chapel.

The boy followed him and repeatedly punched him in the head.

The boy got off the train at Crewe and boarded a Cardiff-bound service.

As a result of the attack, the victim suffered a deep cut on his lip that required stitches, as well as bruising on his head and ear.

Knutsford Guardian: Detectives believe this boy may have information that could help their investigationDetectives believe this boy may have information that could help their investigation (Image: British Transport Police)

Detectives believe the boy in the CCTV images may have information that could help their investigation.

Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016, or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 170 of 20 February.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.