TRANSPORT police are appealing for information to identify a pensioner, who allegedly assaulted a young boy on a train, by putting him in an arm lock, the Lancashire Telegraph reports.

Officers from the British Transport Police said they are investigating the incident after images were shared of the ‘altercation’ on social media.

The image allegedly shows the man putting the boy into the disabling hold on the Clitheroe to Manchester service when the train was in the Bolton area.

It is understood the man, thought to be in his 70s, asked the three boys, to take their feet off the seats, but they refused.

An eyewitness, who was sat behind them, said the man allegedly punched one of the children in the ribs and had hold of his arm.

One passenger, who did not wish to be named, said the boy was ‘crying afterwards’.

He said he and other passengers reported the incident to the train staff, but the man was allowed to leave the train.

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A photo of the incident was reportedly taken by one of the other boys and was later shared on social media.