A manhunt has been launched after a teenage girl was attacked on a train by a man who later got off at Gatwick Airport. The 15-year-old girl was seriously sexually assaulted on board a service travelling to London Victoria at about 3.10pm on Wednesday before the suspect left the train at Gatwick.

Detectives have released CCTV images of a man they believe may have information that could assist their investigation as they appeal for the public's help to identify him. British Transport Police said the attack took place on the train bound for London Victoria and are urging anyone who recognises the man, or who witnessed the incident, to come forward.

Detective Inspector Ciaran May said: “We’re launching an urgent appeal following a very serious incident on board a train this afternoon.

"I’d urge anyone who recognises the man in the photo to get in touch with us as soon as possible.

“Likewise, if you were on the train at the time and witnessed anything which may be useful to our investigation, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to text British Transport Police on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 469 of 05/08/26.