Witness appeal following robbery in Leith Links

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following an assault and robbery which took place around 10.10pm on Saturday 28th December in the Leith Links area of the city.

A 34-year-old woman was walking along Claremont Road towards Seafield when a man riding a silver mountain bike approached and engaged her in conversation.

The pair then made their way together to a grassy area near to the Cricket Club when the man struck the woman to the face, causing her to fall to the ground.

Following the assault, the suspect then made off towards the old railway with the victim’s handbag.

Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

The suspect is described as white, in his twenties, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall with a skinny build and short brown hair that was shaved at the sides. He was wearing a light grey hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Constable Andrew Gamble said: “Fortunately, the woman was not seriously injured during this incident. However, she was understandably shaken and upset at the theft of her bag.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around the Cricket Club and railway line on Saturday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious.

“Similarly, anyone who can help identify the suspect, or who has any other information relevant to this investigation is also asked to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.