PASSENGERS on the Glasgow to Ayr train have called for action after the latest in a string of incidents on the line. 

Witnesses told the Ayr Advertiser that a verbal attack on the Glasgow to Ayr train took place around 8pm on Saturday, when a man began shouting sexual abuse at a fellow commuter, believed to be from Europe.

They told us: “A loudmouth kicked off, threatening another passenger who he swore would be slashed when he got off the train.

“A young woman tried to intervene and her boyfriend tried to calm things down but she was repeatedly told it was none of her f***ing business.

“He continued to threaten to slash and sexually assault his victim when he got off the train. The victim then went and locked himself in the toilet.

“At Ayr station the threatening party got off the train quickly and planted himself on the platform facing the departing passengers waiting to get his victim.

“The whole carriage heard what was happening and the atmosphere was very tense.”

British Transport Police confirmed they are aware of the verbal attack and inquires are ongoing.

A spokesman for BTP, said: “We are aware of the incident and have received reports of an abusive man on the 7.30pm train on the Glasgow Central to Ayr service.

"Officers are in the process of gathering evidence and we are looking to speak to any witnesses to see what happened.”

Anyone who witnessed this incident can get in touch the the British Transport Police by texting 61016 or phoning 0800 40 50 40 and quoting reference number 557 and Saturday, December 9.

BTP have launched their Keep a Clear Head Campaign in the run up to Christmas.

Speaking about the campaign, Superintendent David Marshall from British Transport Police, said: “We do see a rise in anti-social and public order offences in the run up to Christmas and the New Year and sadly much of this is a result of partygoers drinking to excess and behaving in an unacceptable way. 

“We will be stepping up our patrols on rail services and at stations over the coming weeks to ensure those travelling on the rail network over this busy period can do so safely and securely.

“We know ScotRail are planning on running additional late night trains, my officers will be highly visible either at stations or on board their services to deter anti-social behaviour and to help passengers get home.”