EditorSwansea train manager jailed for sexually assaulting teenage passenger
Nicholas McMurray, 38, was convicted at Swansea Crown Court of sexual assault and assault by penetration. He has been placed on the sex offenders’ register for life.
The court heard how McMurray approached the young woman as she travelled alone on the evening of 22 June last year. While asking to check her ticket, he adjusted her dress and went on to sexually assault her.
The victim immediately reported the incident to British Transport Police (BTP) officers at Swansea station, where McMurray was arrested on the platform. Body‑worn camera footage of the arrest has now been released as part of a BBC investigation into sexual offences on the railways.
‘Completely abused his position’
Detective Constable Farrell of BTP said:
“McMurray completely abused his position and took advantage of this young woman. I would like to thank the victim for her courage and bravery throughout the police investigation. McMurray will now have to spend a considerable amount of time to reflect on the actions he took that day.”
During his arrest, officers placed clear bags over McMurray’s hands to preserve forensic evidence. In interview, he falsely claimed the victim had kissed him first and that his actions were consensual.
Judge’s remarks
Sentencing him to seven years in prison, Judge Huw Rees told McMurray he had preyed on a “vulnerable” teenager:
“You took advantage of an alone and vulnerable young woman to satisfy your sexual hunger.”
Custody image of former Great Western Railway train manager Nicholas McMurray, released by British Transport Police. (Image: BTP)GWR response
Great Western Railway confirmed McMurray was immediately removed from duty. A spokesperson said he resigned during the disciplinary process, where dismissal was the likely outcome:
“As soon as we became aware of the incident, we took immediate action to remove the individual from duty. He no longer works for the business. This sentencing was only possible because of the victim’s immense courage in coming forward. Our thoughts remain firmly with her and her family.”
Wider concerns
The BBC investigation also revealed that sexual offences involving under‑18s on trains have trebled in the past decade, rising from 146 reports in 2015 to 443 in 2025. More than 2,900 reports were made over the past 10 years involving children.
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