Police seek ‘Cinderella’ attacker who left his shoe on a train

In Cinderella style, the man is believed to have left one of his boots on the train after the incident, which took place between 9.30pm and 10.20pm on Friday 8 July.

Officers have released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

"The victim, a 24-year-old man from Eltham, waiting for his train at London Bridge when he became involved in a heated conversation with another man, who was accompanied by a woman," says PC Stephen Petty.

"When the train arrived, both parties boarded different carriages but shortly after sitting down the victim received a sudden blow to the head before being punched in the face. He then realised his attacker was the same man from the earlier exchange."

The victim was left with cuts and bruises to his face. The suspect is described as being of slim build, with spiky hair. He was dressed in a Goth style, with dark trousers. It's believed he left the train at Lewisham wearing only one black boot.

PC Petty added: "This attack was violent and completely unprovoked – unleashed on a victim who was clearly surprised by this attack and unable to defend himself.

"The carriage was very busy and I'd like to hear from anyone who knows the man responsible, or who saw what happened, as they could be able to assist our investigation.

"We've made a number of enquiries to try and identify this man, including circulating his image on police intelligence systems, but to no avail so far. If you have any information, please get in touch."

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B8/LSA of 17/10/11. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.