A police investigation is underway after three pensioners were attacked by a group of cyclists in the Colinton area around 6.30pm last night.
An 85-year-old man was walking along Redford Road near Colinton Bowling Club when he noticed two men and a woman cycling towards him on the pavement. He told them they should not be riding on the path as he was not able to walk past.
They started shouting at him, prompting a 68-year-old man to cross the road to intervene.
The woman then punched this man in the face, forcing him to the ground, where one of the men then kicked and punched him.
At this point, a 65-year-old passer-by tried to help, but he was also pushed to the ground.
The three suspects then fled the scene on their bikes, making off south along Redford Road.
Anyone who can identify the suspects is urged to come forward.
One of the men was described as white, in his 20s, with a slim build and goatee beard.
He was wearing a light coloured top and blue jeans.
The woman was white, also in her 20s, with light-coloured wavy hair and a light coloured top with blue patterned trousers.
The victims were unable to provide a description of the other attacker.
Chief Inspector Helen Harrison said: “This was a despicable attack carried out for absolutely no reason whatsoever and I can reassure the victims as well as the wider public that we will do everything in our power to trace and arrest these individuals.
“Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“An extensive investigation is now underway including door-to-door enquiries and there will be an increased police presence in the area for the foreseeable future.
“Today, I am eager to hear from anyone who recognises the descriptions of the attackers or who was in the area of Redford Road on Tuesday evening and who saw these suspects.”
Anyone who can help with the ongoing investigation is asked to contact police on 101.
Alternatively, a report can be made anonymously through 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.
