A RAILWAY crossing gatekeeper is recovering after he was attacked with a brick as he worked.The Network Rail employee was approached by a teenager who tried to assault him in the hut at crossing gates in Frinton-on-Sea at about 9.

A RAILWAY crossing gatekeeper is recovering after he was attacked with a brick as he worked.

The Network Rail employee was approached by a teenager who tried to assault him in the hut at crossing gates in Frinton-on-Sea at about 9.30pm on Wednesday.

When the gatekeeper tried to restrain the youngster by pulling him into the hut, the 16-year-old's friend helped him escape.

After the pair left, a brick was thrown through the window, hitting the man on the head. It left him with a large wound that required treatment, although the injuries were not serious.

It has emerged that within the last week there has also been a report of a mobile phone being stolen from the hut.

British Transport Police attended the teenager's home to arrest him on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. During the visit, an officer was allegedly also assaulted by the boy.

The youth was being treated by ambulance crews at the time for a cut to his hand and he undid his bandages and flicked blood in an officer's face, also covering his uniform.

The 16-year-old was taken in for questioning and was last night released on police bail while further enquiries are carried out.

Acting police sergeant Paul Thompson, of British Transport Police, said: “Staff should be able to work without fear of assault or threat.”

Network Rail has said it would not tolerate violence against its members of staff.

Deborah Richards, of Network Rail, said: “We take attacks against our staff very seriously and want to protect them from this unacceptable conduct. Our employees have the right to dignity at work and a workplace free from threats and violent or insulting behaviour.”

The company recently launched a campaign to try to crack down on abusive and violent behaviour towards its employees.