Man knocked down in New Year death horror is named

A PEDESTRIAN who was killed after being knocked down by a car in Edinburgh just hours after the Hogmanay street party has been named.

• Martin Douglas was crossing Union Place, near the Playhouse, when he was struck by a black Toyota. He died in hospital a short time later

Martin Douglas, from Hay Gardens in the city, was crossing Union Place, near the Playhouse Theatre, at around 4.20am on January 1 when he was hit by a black Toyota.

The 41-year-old was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary but died of his injuries a short time later.

Police said the car initially continued on its journey before returning to the scene. The driver is now helping them with their enquiries.

A police spokesman said: "We are appealing for anyone who was in the area and witnessed the collision to contact police immediately. Anyone else who has any information that can assist our enquiries should also get in touch."

A spokesman for the Scottish Ambulance Service said: "A 41-year-old male was knocked down by a car and he was taken to the ERI."

Meanwhile, an 18-year-old was taken to hospital after being struck by a taxi not long after the clock struck 12 on Hogmanay.

The man was knocked down at the junction of Westburn Avenue and Westburn Middlefield in Edinburgh.

The incident happened at around 12.40am and police say that the 18-year-old was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh to be treated for severe head injuries.

A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We attended an incident from a 999 call on Westburn Avenue.

"The call was from someone who wasn't on scene.

"An 18-year-old was hit by a taxi and was taken to hospital to be treated."

Police are looking to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident and have asked them to contact 0131-311 3418 or 0131-311 3131.