Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a number of assaults in the Meadows over the weekend.

At around 3.10 a.m. on Sunday 4th December a 28-year-old man man was at Jawbone Walk when three men approached and assaulted him before trying to rob him of his possessions.

The man was able to get away and contacted police.

Around five minutes after this attack, a 19-year-old man was walking home and had just passed the tennis courts when a group of men pushed him to a bench and punched him to the face.

At this time the men stole the victim’s mobile and a sum of cash.

A third incident then took place at around 3.25 a.m. when two men aged 19 and 21 were robbed of a sum of cash by a group of males.

Officers believe each of these crimes are linked and are urging anyone who can assist with their inquiries to come forward.

All of the suspect are described as wearing dark clothing with scarves covering their faces and their hoods up.

Three of the males were white and in their late teens while the other was a black male in his late teens.

Detective Sergeant Keith Fairbairn from Gayfield CID said: “Fortunately none of the victims were seriously injured as a result of these incidents and we are now eager to speak with any other members of the public who were within the Meadows during the early hours of Sunday morning.

“If you witnessed any suspicious activity, saw the group of males, or believe you can help us identify these individuals, then please contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.