A Romford woman had her handbag snatched on a train after being pestered by the thief.

Detectives from British Transport Police (BTP) have CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident on the 12.05am London Liverpool Street to Goodmayes service, on Friday April 20.

Det Con Graeme Knox, investigating, said that the 29-year-old victim was approached by a man who then engaged her in conversation: “The man repeatedly asked the woman to leave the train with him - an offer that she politely declined.

“Moments later, as the service pulled into Goodmayes station, the man suddenly snatched the woman’s bag before running from the train and out of the station.”

DC Knox said that officers have conducted local enquiries including speaking to witnesses, viewing CCTV footage and circulating images on police intelligence systems, and are now appealing for help from the public:

He said: “We have isolated an image of a man we are keen to talk to as we believe he could assist our investigation.

“If you recognise this man, if you are the man himself, or if you have any information about the incident, we would like to talk to you.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact BTP on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 and quote reference B7/LNA of 11/5/12.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111