Detectives are appealing for witnesses after a man was stabbed at Hackney Downs station in an unprovoked attack as he waited for a train.

British Transport Police have issued CCTV images of a man they would like to identify and talk to in connection with the incident.

The 33-year-old victim was attacked about 9pm on Saturday May 21.

Detective Constable Stephen McBride, said the victim was confronted by another man on platform two of the station: “There was an exchange of words and the man became aggressive and violent.

“Suddenly he lunged at the 33-year-old victim, and stabbed him in the ribcage.”

After the attack, the man left the victim and boarded a north-bound train.

Station staff found the victim who was taken to the Royal London Hospital where he was treated for his injuries.

DC McBride added: “Although the victim suffered a superficial wound, this was a shocking and terrifying incident which has understandably had a lasting effect.

“We have carried out local enquiries since the incident in an attempt to trace the man responsible, but to no avail so far.

“Violent attacks such as this are rare on the railway network and I am now urging anyone who recognises the man pictured, or who may have witnessed the incident, to come forward.”

Police believe the man may have links to the north London area.

Contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040, quoting reference B10/LNA of 31/5/2011 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.