A MAN accused of assault was arrested by an off-duty police officer after he tried to escape on a train.

The assault took place just after 9pm on Tuesday when a 22-year-old man was attacked near the Cheese Market in Salisbury. The victim sustained cuts and bruises to his head and face.

Following the incident the suspect ran off from the area when a van driver attempted to intervene.

Two PCSOs, who were in the area, tracked down a 26-year-old man at Salisbury train station a short time later who they believed to be the suspect.

When they attempted to obtain his details he became abusive towards them and jumped on a train where he continued being offensive.

An off-duty police officer who was travelling on the train arrested the man on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.

He was removed from the train and further arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and possession of a class A drug.

He was then taken into custody at Melksham where we remains.

Wiltshire Police are now appealing for witnesses to the assault.

Inspector Pete Sparrow said: “We are really keen to speak to any witnesses to the assault, in particular, we would really like to speak to the van driver who was passing the area and bravely intervened. His actions caused the suspect to flee the scene.

“Officers were able to locate the suspect swiftly and our enquiries are ongoing including reviewing CCTV footage, however, we would like to hear from anyone who may have information.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.