Please see media release from Police Scotland below. If you were in the vicinity last night or saw someone acting suspiciously in the area please contact the Crime Stoppers number in the press release.

POLICE SCOTLAND – CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS – EAST Serious Sexual Assault, Leith Links

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a serious sexual assault in North of the city.

The incident happened around 1am today (Thursday) in the Leith links area.

A 28-year-old woman was approached by a man who produced a knife before subjecting her to the attack.

The man then made off and the victim contacted police. Officers are now carrying out a thorough investigation of the scene.

Anyone who can assist with this ongoing enquiry is asked to come forward.

The suspect is described as being of Asian appearance and wearing a grey hooded top and black tracksuit bottoms.

Detective Inspector Keith Fairbairn said: “This attack was carried out in a public area and we are keen to hear from anyone who was in or around Leith Links in the early hours of Thursday morning and saw anything suspicious.

“Similarly, anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, or who has any further information that can help us trace the man responsible is also asked to contact police immediately.”

Chief Inspector Sara Buchanan said: “We understand that this incident may have an impact on the local community and so high-visibility patrols are currently being deployed within the Leith Links to engage with members of the public and offer reassurance.

“In addition officers will be liaising with relevant partner agencies to assist anyone affected by this attack.

“I would urge anyone who wishes to speak with an officer in relation to this incident to approach one of the officers at the scene, contact 101 or make an anonymous report via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Here’s a map of Police Scotland beats in Leith. A copy will be kept on the CC resources page.

Click  the graphic to download a PDF.