Witness appeal following attempted robbery in city centre

Police are appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery which happened around 9am this morning when a woman was attacked while she was withdrawing cash from an ATM at the junction of Castle Street.

The suspect attacked the woman from behind and tried to grab the money she had just put in her purse.

He then punched the woman’s partner when he intervened.

The suspect made off empty handed up Castle Street and into Rose Street.

He is described as being in his late 30’s or early 40’s, 5’10” in height, of medium build with medium length greying, brown hair.

He was wearing a blue raincoat, over a green jumper, blue jeans, brown boots or shoes and was carrying an orange rucksack.

Detective Sergeant Lynsey Thomson said: “We are asking anyone who saw this incident this morning to please get in touch. Luckily, the suspect did not succeed in stealing the woman’s money but she was left badly shaken by this incident. Her partner was taken to hospital for treatment for an injury to his ear.

“Enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspect and we would urge anyone with information to contact us on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”