Police are appealing for witnesses following an assault and attempted robbery of an 18-year-old woman in the Northfield area of the city.
The incident happened around 1.40am on Saturday morning when the victim was walking west on Portobello Road. When passing the bus stop outside Piershill Cemetery, a man on a bicycle approached her and asked for the time.
After a brief conversation, she continued on to Northfield Broadway but was aware of the same man cycling behind her. He unsuccessfully attempted to grab her bag from her shoulder, and after a struggle he cycled off in the direction of Northfield. The victim took refuge in Giovanni’s chip shop on Northfield Broadway.
Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.
The suspect is described as white, late 20s, skinny build, tanned complexion, short dark hair with fringe, wearing dark zip up goody and jogging bottoms, and riding a silver and black bike.
Detective Constable John McShane said: “Fortunately the victim didn’t sustain serious injury but she was left badly shaken by this attempted robbery.
“The area was fairly busy with customers from the bar and the chip shop in the area, and we are asking for anyone with information that may assist with our enquiries to come forward.
“Similarly, anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, or noticed someone riding a bike in the area in the early hours of Saturday morning, should contact Police immediately.”
Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, 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.
