Two men convicted of attempted robbery at Edinburgh convenience store

Two men who attacked a convenience store owner during an attempted robbery in Edinburgh have been convicted.

At Edinburgh High Court today, Liam Meechan (pictured) pled guilty to assault to severe injury, permanent disfigurement and attempted robbery, while David Allan pled guilty to assault and attempted robbery.

Meechan (23) and Allan (50) entered the A+A Newsagents on 18th December 2015 before Meechan assaulted the 52-year-old man with a machete. Both then tried to steal money from the store.

The victim successfully fought his attacker off and the pair then made off from the area.

He was then treated in hospital for a fractured skull and various lacerations to his head.

Following investigation by Edinburgh’s CID, Allan was arrested on 31st August 2016 before Meechan was arrested on 6th September 2016.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin MacLean said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the shopkeeper, who suffered some horrific injuries while bravely fending off both men.

“Their willingness to utilise a dangerous weapon demonstrates Meechan and Allan’s violent nature and thanks to the evidence provided by the victim and other witnesses we were able to secure convictions for the pair of them.

“I would like to thank all of those who provided vital assistance with this investigation, which undoubtedly helped bring these men to justice.”