A man accused of hurling racist abuse at a passenger and threatening to ‘smash up’ a train is being hunted by police.

The incident happened in a first class carriage on a train from Edinburgh Haymarket railway station to Manchester Airport on December 29.

British Transport Police want to speak to a man captured on a CCTV image in connection with the incident.

PC Jonathan Ackerley said: “The victim was travelling in the first class carriage of the 18.17 Edinburgh Haymarket to Manchester Airport service.

"He was approached by a man who thrust a phone in his face and directed foul language, abuse and insults at him. He went on to threaten to ‘smash up the train’, before shouting racist language.”

Following enquiries, officers discovered CCTV images of a man they want to speak with in connection with the incident.

PC Ackerley added: “The victim was left feeling extremely uncomfortable and anxious as a result of this behaviour, so much so that he moved carriages to avoid him.

"No-one should be made to feel intimidated or threatened while travelling on the rail network.

“I believe the man in the image will have vital information which could greatly assist our investigation.”

Call 0800 405 040 or text 61016, quoting reference PSUB/B2 of 12/01/16, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.