Teenage girl sexually assaulted in woodland

A 14-year-old girl suffered a serious sexual assault after being knocked unconscious in Edinburgh, police have said.

The incident happened in Wester Hailes at about 9pm on 3 February.

While walking along a footpath, the girl was struck to the back of the head and woke up in the wooded area.

It is believed she was the victim of a serious sexual assault while she was unconscious.

The incident was reported to police last week and officers have launched an investigation and appealed for information.

Detective Inspector Julie Marshall, of Edinburgh’s public protection unit, said: “I want to commend the victim for her bravery in coming forward and reassure the community that we have launched an extensive investigation.”