An incident of homophobic abuse on board a train is under investigation by the British Transport Police (BTP).

The abuse happened on the London Overground service between Hampstead Heath and Canonbury just after 6pm on Saturday, October 1, and witnesses are urged to come forward.

The 40-year-old victim boarded the 5.38pm service to Stratford with his partner and sat in the first carriage close to another man who was already on board.

Investigating officer Pc Ian Russell explained: “Soon into the journey the man began making rude and inappropriate comments towards the victim which got progressively worse, culminating in a torrent of offensive, homophobic remarks.”

When the train arrived at Canonbury the victim and his partner alighted and reported the incident to police. The man remained on the train.

Pc Russell added: “This type of behaviour is offensive and intimidating and has no place on the rail network. Homophobic abuse will simply not be tolerated and I am determined to bring the person responsible to account.”

The man police would like to identify is described as black, aged between 27 and 35 years, of a stocky build with short black hair. He was wearing a blue polo-shirt and blue jeans.

Anyone with information can contact BTP on 0800 40 50 40 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.