A NEXUS worker was allegedly assaulted for asking a customer to wear a mask.

Shortly after 7.40am on October 19, Northumbria Police received a report that a woman had assaulted a member of staff at Chichester Metro Station, on South Tyneside.

It was reported the woman had become argumentative with the staff member who had reminded her she was required to wear a facemask.

It is alleged the woman then pushed the male victim using both hands, causing him to fall backwards to the floor.

The victim was uninjured but police have launched an investigation in a bid to locate the individual responsible.

Metro operator, Nexus, said in a statement: “Assaults on staff will not be tolerated and we urge anyone with information about this incident to get in contact with the police.

“Face coverings are mandatory on all modes of public transport, unless someone has a legitimate exemption.

"This rule is there to keep us all safe from Covid-19 while making essential journeys.

“Our frontline staff have the right to go to work and not have to put up with incidents like this when they’re just doing their job.”

The woman, or anyone who recognises her, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 quoting log 113 191020.

Alternatively you can email 1026@northumbria.pnn.police.uk