Police in Edinburgh are investigating after a series of racial and homophobic graffiti incidents in the Calton Hill area.

Officers were first called on the 6th of June after offensive graffiti was discovered on Jacobs Ladder Steps.

Further reports have now been made to the police regarding similar acts of vandalism in the New Calton Burial Ground on the 16th and 17th of June.

It is believed that the incidents have taken place overnight.

Sergeant David Tench from the West End Police Station, said “We are taking these incidents very seriously and we are working closely with our partners in Edinburgh City Council to ensure that the graffiti is cleaned off quickly.

“We have now deployed plain clothes police officers in the area and increased our high visibility patrols in an effort to identify those responsible.

“We have also requested a temporary CCTV camera to be installed in the area to assist our enquiries.

“We take all types of hate crime seriously and this type of conduct will not be tolerated.

“We are requesting that anyone who may have any information regarding the graffiti to come forward by calling ‘101’ and quoting incident number 863 of the 6th of June or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111”