Southport thug grabbed rail worker by the throat in vicious attack

A Southport man has appeared in court after he launched a vicious attack on a member of rail staff after forcing his way through a barrier without a ticket.

Michael Lucas, of Bath Street, tried to get through the barriers at Wigan Wallgate train station without paying on February 6 this year.

After being denied and challenged by staff, he left.

But British Transport Police said the 32-year-old returned later that same day and forced himself through the barriers. CCTV showed him grabbing a 55-year-old member of staff by the throat.

In June this year, Lucas, of Bath Street, Southport, appeared at Wigan Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm without intent. Yesterday (October 24), he was jailed for two years and four months at Bolton Crown Court.

BTP Detective Sergeant Stephen Kite said: “This was a particularly vicious and unprovoked attack on a member of rail staff and I’m pleased Lucas has been served a lengthy spell behind bars. The safety of those travelling and working on the rail network is our utmost priority, and no one should be subjected to such barbaric violence for simply doing their job.