Police seek witnesses to Morningside assault

The incident happened some time after 2am on Thursday on Church Hill Place.

A 22-year-old man had been drinking in the city centre and travelled by taxi to Merchiston Avenue when he got into a verbal dispute with a male youth.

DOWNLOAD THE EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS APP ON ITUNES OR GOOGLE PLAYThe man then left the area and walked to Church Hill Place where he was again confronted by the youth, who was in the company of another teenager.

At this time the victim was attacked and sustained a cut to his head.

He went to the Royal Infirmary for treatment before reporting the matter to police.

Inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible and anyone with information is asked to contact police.

Both suspects are described as white, 14-16-years-old, between 5ft 6in and 5ft 7in tall with skinny builds, blond hair and wearing grey tracksuits.

Detective Constable Mike Campbell from the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield Police Station said: “This appears to be a totally random confrontation and assault, which left the victim with a painful injury to the back of his head.

“Anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in the Merchiston Avenue or Church Hill Place area during the early hours of Thursday morning is urged to contact police immediately.

“In addition, if anyone recognises the description of the suspects and can help us identify them, then please also get in touch.”

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