Police are hunting for a thug who accidentally tripped a commuter before punching him in the face and knocking him to the floor next to a Tube station escalator.

The 33-year-old man was attacked as he walked through Oxford Circus station on the evening of October 15.

His attacker initially apologised for tripping him up but then became aggressive, police said.

The victim, who suffered facial injuries, was taken to hospital and given stitches.

British Transport Police detectives today released a CCTV picture of a man they want to question over the assault, which happened at about 9.45pm.

Detective Constable Adam Fairweather said: "The man responsible for the attack accidentally tripped the victim.

"The victim required stitches following the attack.

“I believe the man in the image has information about this incident."

Anyone with information can contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference TSUB/B12 of 19/11/15 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.