Three women attacked two couples on a train at Richmond returning from Ascot last month.

British Transport Police (BTP) is investigating after the attack on the waterloo bound train on Friday, June 21.

Investigating officer PC Neil Allison said: “The three women began their attack by using foul and abusive language towards the two couples – two men and two women - who stepped in after the women were being abusive towards a younger passenger onboard the 6.59pm Waterloo-bound train.

“The two couples left the train at Richmond station, and the abuse continued on the platform.

“A member of rail staff stepped in, and in an attempt to calm the situation, he took the four into a nearby staff room.

“However, the group of three women, who were still shouting and using foul language, also got into the room and tried to attack the group of four, before running away through the barriers of the station, and onto Kew road.”

The three women BTP would like to speak to are described as black and aged between 18 and 24.

PC Allison said: “This was a particularly violent and aggressive attack on two couples who had not done anything to provoke it.

“We are currently conducting a number of enquiries, including looking at CCTV opportunities from the station and surrounding area, and locating other witnesses. Forensic opportunities are also being explored.

“This was believed to be a very busy train service, with many of the passengers returning from a day at the Ascot races.

“I am sure that other passengers on the train and at Richmond station may have information key to our investigation.”

If you have information about the attack, call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 6/LS of 26/6/13, or crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.