A DUNFERMLINE man had to be taken to hospital on Monday evening after he was violently assaulted on board a train.

The 58-year-old suffered facial injuries, including a broken nose, after being repeatedly punched by another man on the northbound 8.18pm service from Haymarket.

British Transport Police are investigating the attack – which only ended after shocked passengers intervened – and believe the assailant may be from Inverkeithing. Constable Thomas Ashman, the officer in charge of the enquiry, said, “I am appealing for information, after this unwarranted and violent attack, from anyone who was on the train or at the stations on Monday evening.

"My information is that the man suspected of the assault is a regular commuter to and from Inverkeithing and therefore I believe he resides in the town.

“If you have information which can assist our enquiries and help identify him I am anxious to hear from you.” Both men boarded the train – the 11.25am Plymouth to Dundee service – at Haymarket around 8.15pm and witnesses said words were exchanged.

This led to the victim being punched several times to the head and being knocked to the ground as both men made their way through coach F of the train.

The suspect had to be pulled from the victim by another passenger.

Both men got off the train at Inverkeithing station shortly after 8.30pm and the victim was taken to the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy for treatment to his injuries.

The man responsible for the assault is described as being about 5’10” in height, slim build and with short, fair hair. He was wearing a maroon football top.

Officers will be reviewing CCTV footage from the train and stations as part of their enquiries.

British Transport Police can be contacted on 0800 40 50 40. Information can also be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.