Hunt for thug who bit man in street attack

A man was punched and bitten in a daylight street attack on Easter Road yesterday.

The man was attacked in the street. Picture: Julie Bull

The incident took place around 11am yesterday near the Londis convenience store.

A 57-year-old man was walking his dog, when a male walked passed him before punching him to the face.

A struggle ensued between the two men during which time victim was bitten on the cheek.

Throughout the altercation the suspect made further attempts to assault the victim.

Eventually, the victim was assisted by the driver of a white minibus who drove him away from the area.

Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiry to come forward.

The suspect is described as white, 25 to 30 years old and between 5 feet 5 and 5 foot 10 inches tall with short bright ginger hair. He was wearing a grey zip-up hooded top, with a Hibs crest on the left chest, black top underneath and dark trousers and trainers.

Constable Andrew McMath said: “This incident quickly escalated from a verbal altercation into quite a serious attack, which left the victim with a painful facial injury.

“I would urge anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in Easter Road on Thursday morning to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, if anyone can help us to identify and trace the man responsible for this assault, they should also get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.