Police are trying to trace a man who punched a female member of train station staff in the face.

The "unprovoked" attack happened at Manchester Piccadilly station around 11am on Friday July 19 British Transport Police (BTP) said.

In a statement they said: "A man is reported to have become agitated after being asked to show a ticket. He lifted a child over the barriers, in the process knocking her head, and then turned to the staff member and punched her in the face. "

CCTV footage released by the force today shows the woman being knocked backwards by the force of the blow.

"The staff member suffered bruising and swelling and was signed off work for a period of time" BTP added.

BTP are asking anyone who recognises the man to contact them immediately

They today urged anyone who recognises man in the footage to contact them immediately.

They ask that anyone with information contacts BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 and quoting reference 201 of 19/07/19.

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Alternatively, they call the independent charity Crimestoppers and pass information anonymously  on 0800 555 111 and give the same reference.

Manchester Piccadilly station's Twitter feed said tonight: "Please can we have your help with retweeting this to identify the man involved in this horrific attack at Manchester Piccadilly."