POLICE are investigating after a woman was groped on a train by a young man.

British Transport Police have released this CCTV image of a man they want to identify after the 19-year-old woman was subjected to the incident on board the Portsmouth and Southsea to Bitterne train.

Officers have since stepped up patrols of trains and stations in the area.

The incident took place on the 12.38pm train on October 1.

DC Phil James, who is leading the investigation, said: “The woman was travelling alone on the train and was sitting in a four-block of seats.

"At about 12.55, as the train pulled into Portchester station, a man sitting opposite, got up and stood in front of her. He then touched her inappropriately, before running from the train.

“This was understandably an incredibly unpleasant incident for the victim and something that nobody should have to endure.

"Everyone has the right to travel on public transport without the fear of unwanted sexual behaviour and I am determined to catch the person responsible.”

DC James added: “Do you recognise the boy in the red hoodie? I want to speak with him, as I believe he has important information about what happened that day. If you recognise him, or have any other information which could assist, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference S-SUB/B3 of 04/11/2014. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.