Police are hunting a train user suspected of having headbutted and punched railway staff in a row over an invalid ticket.

Detectives issued CCTV images of the bald-headed man today after an argument at the ticket barriers turned into a violent scuffle at Barking Station.

Police said the man started to swear at the employees after trying to get past them with an invalid ticket.

He then used his Oyster card to get through the barriers before headbutting a staff member, British Transport Police said.

A colleague stepped in but was punched in the face, a BTP spokesman said.

The man was restrained on the floor but managed to get up and left the station, police added.

The incident happened at around 11.40pm on October 26.

Investigating officer Pc Greig Watkins said: “Staff should be free to carry out their jobs without being abused or intimidated. “BTP does not tolerate staff assaults of any kind and we will work to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

“If anyone recognises the man pictured, or knows his whereabouts, then please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 quoting B9/LNA of 14/11/12, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.