POLICE have released CCTV images of three people they want to speak to in connection with a "frightening" attack on a tram.
Youths armed with spades and glass bottles smashed up a tram in front of terrified children last Thursday.
A witness, who we have agreed not to name, told how passengers screamed and ducked for cover as the group boarded the tram when it arrived at Woodside at around 6pm.
"I realised something was wrong when the tram began to stop and I saw people waiting on the platform with weapons," she said.
"When the doors opened they rushed on and started attacking two passengers on the tram with belts and metal poles.
"I thought about trying to run away but I didn't want to barge past them, so I hid with the other passengers.
"The men they were attacking fought back and the people with weapons became frustrated and start hurling things at the tram.
"They only ran off when they heard the police were coming.
"It was appalling to see that kind of behaviour, and very scary."
British Transport Police (BTP) arrived and spoke to the men who were attacked. They suffered cuts and bruises but were not seriously hurt.
The BTP have released CCTV images of people they want to talk to in connection with the incident. No arrests have been made.
Four windows of the tram were smashed and the vehicle had to be taken out of action.
Detective Inspector Ash Cooper, leading the investigation, said: "This was a serious and violent assault and we are looking at all available evidence to identify the youths responsible.
"We are conducting an in-depth investigation into the incident which has included viewing CCTV from the station working through forensic opportunities and speaking with witnesses.
"Images have also been circulated to other forces and on police intelligence systems.
"Luckily, no one was injured as a result of the attack but I urge anyone who saw what took place or who knows the men pictured to contact police as a matter or urgency."Anyone with information is asked to call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B12/LSA or 25/04/2013.
Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
