Larne: Man arrested after train conductor assaulted

The assault happened in Larne on Wednesday morning

A man has been arrested after a conductor was assaulted onboard a train in Larne in County Antrim.

It happened at about 09:10 BST in Magheramorne, police have said.

The staff member was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. A Translink spokesperson said they "completely condemn this assault".

The 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and criminal damage, and he remains in custody.

"Everyone deserves to be safe in their place of work and we are asking for the continued support of the whole community in showing zero tolerance to abuse of Translink staff," said Insp Parkes from the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

'Despicable'

"This is a despicable act which I condemn outright," says John O'Dowd

Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd condemned the attack, which he described as a "despicable act".

"The safety of staff delivering essential public transport services is paramount," he said.

"Staff should be able to go to their work without fear of attack. My thoughts are with the train conductor involved in this incident and I wish him a speedy recovery."

Reward for evidence

Translink said the safety of their customers, staff and the wider public is their "top priority at all times", and that all of their staff "have the right to work without fear of abuse or violence".

"We are assisting the PSNI investigation, including provision of CCTV from on board the train and at the station," the spokesperson added.

"We also offer a reward of up to £1,000 for anyone prepared to give evidence which leads to a conviction."