Rail Rage

Recently there have been a spate of so-called 'steamings' at Tube and railway stations, invariably involving large gangs of black youths and white victims.

Here are two of the worst examples I have come across:

A MAN was hit over the head with a baseball bat and robbed of his phone and bag outside Snaresbrook Underground station.

The 36-year-old had just got off the Tube and was walking down Wanstead New Road at around 12.30am on Sunday morning when he heard fast footsteps behind him.

He turned around to see two men who then hit him over the head with the bat.

As the man lay on the floor, the thieves stole the his mobile phone, along with a hold-all bag. Fortunately the man survived without any serious injuries.

The attackers are both black but there is no other description. Anyone who saw the attack or has information should call DC Beth Spencer on: 8345 2681.

The second was reported in January of this year, but occurred in December 2008:

This is the shocking moment a woman commuter was punched and kicked to the ground by a baying mob in a "rail rage" ticket hall attack.

The victim was attacked after being confronted by another woman traveller during the rush hour at Wimbledon Station, in south west London.

Violence erupted after she brushed past her attacker in front of the ticket barriers, British Transport Police said.

But in an experience familiar to millions of Londoners, her ticket was rejected, forcing her to turn back.

The victim was then punched in the face repeatedly by the woman, knocking her to the ground.

As she lay on the floor, several other people crowded around and began kicking her in the head and body.

CCTV camera footage appeared to show up to seven people involved in the attack on the woman, who was left with severe bruising to her head.