Police probe attempted robbery

POLICE are investigating an attempted robbery at a busy newsagents that saw a “gaunt” man demand money from a cashier.

The man ran towards Melville Street. Picture: Julie Bull

A man wearing a white or cream waterproof jacket with a front pocket ordered counter staff at the WH Smith on Queensferry Street to hand over money but they refused and raised the alarm.

The man left on foot empty handed, heading out of the store along Queensferry Street Lane and Stafford Street towards Melville Street.

The man is described as white, around 25 years old, and up to 5ft 7in tall. He is of slim build and has dark hair.

Detective Constable Alison Wyllie said: “Nothing was stolen and no-one was injured during the incident but it would have been frightening for the member of staff and customers. This incident happened during the busy rush-hour and school-run period and I want to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time who may have seen the man before or after the attempted robbery.”