Police praise ‘extreme bravery' of night porter who intervened in street attack

Police in Edinburgh have praised the actions of a hotel porter who came to the aid of two women targeted in a "random and unprovoked attack".

The 37-year-old porter suffered a laceration to his hand after coming to aid of the women, who were attacked next to the Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel within the Grassmarket at about 3.35am yesterday (Thursday 8 November).

Detective Inspector Grant Johnston told the Edinburgh Evening News: "We cannot overvalue the actions of the night porter who has undoubtedly shown extreme bravery in fending off the attacker and preventing the ladies from suffering far more serious injuries."

The two victims, aged 60 and 58, suffered a number of injuries and were taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Johnston added: "This appears to be an entirely random and unprovoked attack, which has left three people with some very serious injuries."

Police Scotland have since charged a 38-year-old man with two counts of attempted murder and a serious assault. He is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court later today.

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