Manchester: Train passenger apologises for anti-gay rant

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A 56-year-old man who shouted homophobic abuse and several expletives at two gay men on a train has apologised.

The incident happened on Sunday 4 November at Blackpool North Station and continued on board a train travelling to Manchester Airport.

Footage of the abuse was recorded on a mobile phone and published on You Tube.

Last week, the victims, Alex Platt and Tyrone Ruscoe, criticised the decision to issue the man with a caution.

However, in a statement released through the British Transport Police (BTP) on Monday afternoon, the pair said:

“The response of British Transport Police on the night was prompt and effective and this whole episode highlights the importance of reporting hate crime to the relevant authorities. We hope the video highlighted the importance of reporting hate crime.

“I would ask that the media respect our decision to draw a line under this matter and I am confident this view is shared by the offender.”

BTP said it had facilitated an apology from the offender which has been accepted by both victims.