A WOMAN, 23, was put through a “prolonged” sexual assault on a busy train before an unknown man stepped in to help her.

The victim boarded a Greater Anglia train heading to Stratford at Enfield Lock station shortly before 8am on Monday, January 30, when a man began assaulting her.

On board the very busy train the man stood close to the woman touching her inappropriately on her back and bottom.

Noticing the victim was distressed by this ordeal, an unknown man intervened blocking the man from assaulting the woman further.

The victim and the man then left the train at Stratford.

A 33-year-old man from Enfield was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in connection with the incident.

He was realised on police bail and will return on Wednesday, March 8, pending further enquiries.

Police are now appealing directly to the man who intervened to get in touch.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Suleman Yazdani said: “This was a prolonged assault on board a very busy train which has understandably upset the victim.

“No one should ever be subjected to unwanted sexual advances – we’re pleased she had the confidence to report it.

“I am very keen to speak with the man who intervened during this assault by standing in-between the victim and her attacker.

“Please get in touch as soon as possible as you may have vital information that could help us investigate.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact officers by sending a text to 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 114 of 30/01/2017.