Witness appeal after man robbed

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a robbery on the News Steps, near Market Street, in Edinburgh on Sunday night.

A 22-year-old man was going up the steps from Market Street, towards North Bank Street, at about 10.50pm when a man walking down the steps approached him.

The man produced a knife, demanded money and robbed the victim of a small quantity of cash, before running off back up the steps towards the High Street.

The suspect is described as being white, between 30-40 years old, 5ft 8/9ins tall, of stocky build with short thinning light brown hair.

He spoke with a Scottish accent, and was wearing a dark sports jacket with a zip up the middle, and dark trousers.

A police spokesperson said: "Fortunately no one was injured in this incident, but we would appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time, and who saw what happened, to contact us.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who may recognise the description of the suspect."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or the charity Crimestoppers, in confidence and complete anonymity, on 0800 555 111.