While the driver and conductor were on the platform the whole group jumped them and started to assault them

Billy Gilpin Translink

The train driver was treated in hospital for a suspected broken jaw and the conductor suffered a suspected broken nose.

Both men were treated for cuts and bruises to the face.

Billy Gilpin from bus and rail company, Translink, said the attack was distressing for all involved.

"This was the bank holiday and it was a nice day," he said.

Vicious assault

"There were families and children travelling to Bangor and I think the last thing anybody expected to see was a vicious assault of this kind."

The group were removed from the train at Cultra station when they failed to pay their fare.

However attempts by the group to get back on the train meant the driver and conductor had to remove them again.

"While the driver and conductor were on the platform, the whole group of ten jumped them and started to assault them," said Mr Gilpin.

Billy Gilpin: "A vicious assault"

Jason Brannigan, a conductor with Translink, said the attack was not an isolated incident.

"On occasions, I have found myself in situations where I have been in fear for my safety," he said.

"Over the years there have been a few incidents where conductors have been assaulted."

Mr Gilpin said Translink were prepared to consider all possible solutions to protect their staff and members of the public.

"We liaise closely with the RUC in order to have their support and response.

"We are looking at measures of closed circuit television on board trains and we will speak to anyone who we feel can help us address this serious problem."

A man who was arrested after the attack has been released on police bail.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call the detectives on 02891454444 08005551.