Police are hunting a dog owner who spat at a tram driver who asked him not to bring his pet onboard.
The passenger unleashed "a tirade of vile verbal abuse" at the driver after being told he could not take his dog on the tram, which had stopped at Blackhorse Lane, because it was not on a lead.
He then spat on the back of the driver's neck.
British Transport Police today released an image of a man sought in connection with the incident, at around 1pm on Thursday, May 30.
Detective Sergeant Bob Stokoe said: "He was told by the tram driver to leave the tram because the dog was not on a lead.
"The man then subjected the driver to a tirade of vile verbal abuse, before spitting on the back of his neck and leaving the tram.”
He added: "This was an appalling attack on a member of staff who was simply trying to do his job. Staff should be free to carry out their duties without fear of violence and abuse."
Sharon Thompson, Transport for London's director of trams, said: "One of the roles our drivers perform is to ensure the safety and security of our passengers and I know they take it very seriously.
"It would mean a lot to them and the company if that concern was reciprocated and someone who saw this incident could come forward.
"I know it is not an easy thing to do but our staff deserve the right to do their job without fear of attack."
Anyone with information can contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting B5/LSA of 31/07/2013. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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