Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses after a man was seriously assaulted in the city centre.

The incident happened at around 3.20am on Wednesday 5 December on George Street near to the junction with Frederick Street. 

A 39-year-old man was approached by two men who assaulted him, leaving him with serious head and facial injuries.

Emergency services attended and the man was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary by the Scottish Ambulance Service and later transferred to the Western General Hospital.

The suspects made off on foot down Frederick Street, away from the city centre.

They are both described as white males, wearing dark coloured clothing.

One of the suspects is described as between 30-40-years-old, around 5ft 11ins tall and was wearing a black puffa jacket.

Detective Inspector Grant Johnston from Gayfield CID said: “Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of this incident, and I am keen to hear from anyone who witnessed what happened to come forward.

“I would especially like to hear from anyone who may have seen the victim or the suspects before the incident. 

“Anyone with any information to assist our inquiries and in tracing those involved,is asked to get in touch immediately.”

Those with information can contact Gayfield CID on 101, quoting incident number 0259 of 5 December, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.