Metro passengers lose cash after ticket machines tampered with at Sunderland and South Tyneside stations

British Transport Police (BTP) has released CCTV images of a man officers would like to speak to in connection with a series of thefts and attempted thefts from ticket machines.

Over a five day period between 22 September and 28 September, ticket machines were tampered with at five Metro stations in Sunderland and South Tyneside.

This resulted in passengers who tried to use the machines losing money.

A BTP spokesman said: "The offender had also interfered with the ticket machine help points in order to prevent passengers from reporting to the company that they had lost their money.

"Ticket machines at Brockley Whins, East Boldon, Seaburn, Stadium of Light and St Peters Metro stations were targeted.

"Officers would like to speak to the man shown the CCTV images as he may have information which could help the investigation.

"If you recognise him, please call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 or text 6101, quoting reference number 350 23/9/17."