A fare dodger has been sentenced to more than two years in prison after he attacked a railway worker in Greater Manchester.

On Sunday, 6th February, at Wigan Wallgate station, Michael Lucas attacked Colin Spicer who is a gateline officer for Carlisle Support Services working on behalf of train operator Northern.

The unprovoked attack left Mr. Spicer with significant injuries for which he required hospital treatment.

The conviction followed an appeal by Northern in September for the public’s assistance in identifying perpetrators who had carried out over 70 dangerous attacks on its trains in the last 12 months.

Since August 2021, Northern’s trains across the North of England have been struck by 42 bricks, stones, and rocks that have been thrown from bridges and railway embankments. Further damage has been caused to its carriages which have also collided with 27 substantial items deliberately placed on the track, including shopping trollies, pushchairs, and bikes.

Northern is reiterating its request that anyone who witnesses any crime taking place on the railway should contact British Transport Police immediately by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, or by calling Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Chris Jackson, regional director for Northern, said: “This was a sickening attack on a member of staff who was just going about his work assisting customers.

“We will not tolerate abusive behaviour of any sort towards our colleagues and we welcome the sentence that has been passed down this week.”

Adrian White, chief operating officer at Carlisle Support Services, added:

“We were saddened to hear about the attack on Mr Spicer, no one should be subjected to this when going about a days work. Whilst recovering, Colin received full support from Carlisle Support Services and Northern.

“As part of our commitment to ensuring staff and public safety, Carlisle Support Services will continue to provide rigorous staff training on conflict management and resolution.”