A gang of thugs beat up a man in a top hat because he refused to let them try it on.

The fancily dressed commuter was waiting for a train at Catford Bridge when he was approached by a group of men on February 28, shortly after 10pm.

They asked if they could try on his top hat, but the victim declined.

He then got on board a train destined for Charing Cross. A man approached him again and there was a 'disagreement', police said.

The victim was assaulted, and left with facial injuries.

His top hat was also stolen.

British Transport Police have released CCTV images of three men they wish to speak in connection with the incident.

Investigating officer Stephen Allen said: “I am keen to speak to the men in the CCTV images as they may hold vital information to my investigation and I urge them to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.