Call for witnesses after attack by would-be bag snatcher

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an assault and attempted robbery in the Marchmont area of the Capital.

The incident happened at around 8.25pm yesterday, in Thirlestane Road.

The 23-year-old victim was walking alone when the suspect grabbed her handbag and tried to wrestle it from her grasp. She fought back, and the suspect left empty-handed.

He is described as white, in his early 20s, 5ft 7ins to 5ft 8ins tall, skinny build, with close-set eyes. He was wearing a black woolly hat, a dark coloured jacket, and a blue rucksack. He may have an English accent.

A police spokesman said: "While the victim managed to fight her attacker off without injury, she was still understandably shaken as a result of her ordeal.

"We want anyone who witnessed this incident to come forward as a matter of urgency. Similarly, anyone who saw the suspect in the area of Thirlestane Road at around the time the incident took place, or who has any information as to his identity, should also get in touch."

Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.