An Elizabeth line worker has died after an attack at a railway station in east London.

Officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) were called to Ilford station just before 8.50pm on Wednesday following reports of a serious assault.

The 61-year-old man was taken to hospital with serious head injuries but later died.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our member, who died following an attack while at work

The RMT union said the victim was one of its members and worked as a customer experience assistant for MTREL, which runs the Elizabeth Line.

General secretary Mick Lynch said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our member, who died following an attack while at work.

“The whole union sends its condolences to their family, friends and colleagues at this awful time and everyone’s thoughts at RMT are with them.”

MTREL said the man had been a “dedicated member of the railway community for 24 years”.

Mike Bagshaw, managing director of the transport operator said: “This is an unimaginable loss, and my heart goes out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this profoundly difficult time.

“He was a valued member of our team, serving the railway community with dedication and kindness for more than two decades.

“We are devastated that such a senseless act of violence has taken the life of one of our colleagues.

“He has lost his life simply for carrying out his job, everyone has the right to feel safe and protected at work and this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unacceptable abuse faced by rail colleagues.”

Ayodele Jamgbadi, of Kingston Road, Ilford, appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday charged with grievous bodily harm, affray and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in a private place and was remanded to appear at Inner London Crown Court on January 7.

BTP said detectives would apply to amend the indictment to reflect the death of the victim.

Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP on 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting incident 699 of December 4.