A VERBAL assault on a train driver left passengers stranded at Oxford Station and police have appealed for witnesses.

The 21.48 from London Paddington to Worcester Shrub Hill terminated at Oxford on Saturday night after a member of staff was assaulted.

Great Western Railways confirmed it was the train driver and British Transport Police have since appealed for anyone who witnessed a verbal assault on board to come forward.

A BTP spokesman said the 'verbal altercation' occurred between the member of staff and two passengers at around 10.40pm.

The train then stopped at Didcot Parkway for 40 minutes before continuing onto Oxford where it was cancelled at the request of the police.

The British Transport Police has been working with the Rail Industry Partnership to tackle offences against members of staff.

It said the majority of offences arose from minor issues such as passengers being challenged over an incorrect ticket but warned alcohol also played a part with passengers likely to become 'more agressive' over delays or missing their train.

The force made clear it was committed to be tough on passengers who assaulted staff.

It said: "We are taking a hard-line approach against those who assault staff.

"We will arrest, prosecute and possibly ban from rail services anyone who uses violence against rail staff."

Anyone who was on board the 21.48 on Saturday should contact BTP on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 680.