LOTHIAN and Borders Police are appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery in Edinburgh.
The incident happened around 9pm yesterday (Wednesday) in Pilton area of the city.
A 19-year-old man alighted a bus on Crewe Road North and turned onto Pilton Avenue as he walked home.
The suspect attempted to hit his victim © Deadline News
After passing the entrance to Crewe Place, a male approached and engaged him in conversation before demanding his bag.
The man refused and the suspect swung a punch, which was blocked before the victim ran off and contacted police.
Officers are now keen to speak with anyone who can assist with their enquiries.
The suspect is described as white, 20-25-years-old, 6ft tall with a medium build and short blond hair. He was wearing a red and white checked shirt, khaki-coloured trousers and spoke with a local accent. It is believed he was also under the influence of alcohol at the time.
A police spokesman said: “Fortunately the young man was not injured as a result of this attempted robbery, nevertheless, it was an unpleasant experience that left him quite shaken.
“We believe there were a number of motorists who would have driven past as this incident was happening and they are asked to come forward if they remember seeing anything suspicious.
“Similarly, anyone who can help identify the suspect is also asked to contact police immediately.”
Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.
