Police probe racist assault in city park

INQUIRIES are continuing into a racist assault on Bruntsfield Links.

The incident happened at around 2am on Saturday, when a 22-year-old man, described as being of Afro-Caribbean appearance, was walking through Leamington Walk.

As he passed a group of eight or nine youths sitting on benches opposite the Bruntsfield Hotel, he was confronted by one youth, who punched him in the face.

The rest of the gang then joined in the assault, hitting him around the head for several seconds, while reportedly making racist remarks.

The victim walked off while the group of youths remained at the scene. Although he did not require hospital treatment, the victim sustained bruising to his eye.

The suspect who first hit the victim was described as being of mixed race, between 16 and 18-years-old, and had closely shaved hair. He was wearing a dark round-neck jumper and blue Adidas tracksuit bottoms, with white stripes down the legs.

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