Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault which took place around 10.35pm last night in Princes Street.
A 37-year-old man was walking towards the East End when he reached the bus stop on the southside pavement, opposite Marks and Spencer. At this time he witnessed a group of around six or seven teenage males hassling members of the public and challenged them on their behaviour.
The group then attacked the victim, resulting in him sustaining a number of serious injuries to his face. He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment.
Officers are now asking anyone who can assist with their inquiries to come forward.
The suspects are described as being around 15 or 16-years-old and wearing dark puffer-style jackets. One of the youths had blond hair.
Detective Constable John Dunn from the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield Police Station said: “The victim has attempted to come to the aid of a number of people who were being intimidated by the group of suspects. His intervention subsequently resulted in a vicious attack that left him requiring medical attention.
“We would urge anyone who was on Princes Street on Monday evening and witnessed this assault to contact police immediately.
“In particular, we would like to speak with the members of the public who were being hassled by the group and who may be able to provide us with more information that can help identify these youths.”
Those with information can contact the VRU via 101 and quote incident number 4535 of the 23rd July. Alternatively an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
