POLICE have issued an appeal to help identify a man after aerosol was set alight and thrown onto a route 151 bus in Sutton. 

The dangerous attack saw the substance ignited and hurled through the bus drivers window on August 13.

The man, who was with a group of friends, boarded at Crown Road bus stop, near Sutton High Street, travelling towards Shotfield, at around 2.20 pm.

It was reported that the the bus driver challenged the group, after the man and his friends refused to tap in and pay.

The man then got off the bus, ignited an aerosol can and threw it into the cab of the bus, through the driver’s window. He then ran away from the scene.

Thankfully the driver was not injured.

PC Natalie Baynes, of the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “This was a shocking and quite frankly dangerous incident and I am very pleased the driver did not come to harm.

"Had the aerosol can exploded, I dread to think how serious the injuries could have been. 

"I am looking to speak with anyone who can help us identify the man in this CCTV image. Likewise, if you were on board the bus and witnessed what happened, please do get in touch.”

Anyone who recognises the man in the image or with any information is asked to contact the police by calling 101 quoting reference 4009478/20.

Alternatively, tweet @MetCC on Twitter or to report anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.