A British Transport Police officer was today fired for using “excessive and unnecessary force” on a member of public during an arrest at St Pancras station.

PC Peter Crofts, based at King’s Cross St Pancras, was found guilty of gross misconduct over the incident in March last year.

Dep Ch Cons Adrian Hanstock said: “I support the decision. When police officers fail to retain control of a situation and do not exercise restraint, it understandably alarms the public and it is of extreme regret that an officer has failed in his duty to be proportionate and cautious in his use of force.

“This behaviour was unacceptable and it is important to remember that a single incident such as this undermines the bravery of hundreds of officers who rush to the protect the public every day.”