Youth gang in assault on passers-by

A HUMAN resources worker today described how he was kicked and punched on the ground by a gang of teenagers who were throwing snowballs at passers-by.

Andrew Skladowski was walking with two friends beside the McDonald's fast-food restaurant on Gorgie Road when the 15-strong group of youngsters began throwing snowballs.

The 46-year-old and his friends asked the youths - believed to be aged 14 to 18 - to stop throwing snowballs, but were threatened and took refuge in the restaurant.

After trying to leave to return home to Slateford, the three friends were set upon by members of the gang.

Mr Skladowski said: "At one point I fell over, and they started punching and kicking me on the ground.

"Fortunately, I was wearing thick layers of clothing so that protected me and I was able to get away."

He added: "My flatmate was left with a swollen face."

A Lothian and Borders police spokesman confirmed officers had attended the scene, but the youths had already fled.