POLICE are appealing for help after a vulnerable girl travelling to Newport who was subjected to inappropriate sexual comments during a train journey.

British Transport Police have released CCTV images of a group of men they believe may have key information which could assist their investigation.

PC Debi Rouse, who is investigating the incident, said: “The victim, who was 15-years-old at the time, was travelling from Westbury in Wiltshire to Newport in Gwent, where the service was due to terminate.

“During the journey, she was approached by a man who struck up a conversation with her. As the train approached Newport, he subjected her to a number of explicit and lewd comments, which naturally caused her some distress.

“This was understandably an extremely distressing experience for the young victim, who has learning difficulties and epilepsy.

“Unwanted sexual behaviour of any kind on the rail network will not be tolerated. Fortunately incidents of this nature are rare but, when they do occur, we will do all we can to track down those responsible.”

Officers have been engaged in a lengthy investigation since the incident took place between 5.20pm and 5.50pm on Friday, 16 May. Having conducted a number of CCTV enquiries, investigators have isolated images of a group of individuals they would like to speak to.

“As a result of our investigations, I am now in a position to release images of eight men we believe may hold vital information in connection with this incident,” said PC Rouse.

“If you recognise the men pictured, or have any information about the incident, I would urge you to please come forward and talk to us. Your information could prove vital to this investigation.”

Anyone with information about this incident should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016 quoting reference WSUB/B8 of 25/07/2014. Alternatively, information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.