Sex attack on 'taxi' passenger near Hillend Published duration 12 April 2015

image copyright David Dixon image caption The woman was picked up near the Greyfriar's Bobby statue in Edinburgh

A 31-year-old woman has been sexually assaulted after getting into a car she believed was a private hire taxi.

The woman was picked up from Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, near the Greyfriars Bobby's statue, at 03:30am.

She was taken to a layby just past the Hillend Ski Slope, near the Boghall Farm in Midlothian where she was subjected to a serious sexual assault..

She was then left near the Sheriffhall roundabout on the city bypass.

Police Scotland are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the victim or the car.

The suspect was described as being of South Asian appearance, aged 35-40, about 5ft 5in - 5ft 6in, of slim build.

He had dark, cropped hair and was clean-shaven. He was wearing dark clothing and spoke with an Edinburgh accent.

The car was described as being a five-door saloon, which was possibly a navy colour.

Det Sgt Keith Mackay said: "This was a frightening experience for the woman, who is now in the care of her family.

"We are eager to trace this man and are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who recognises the man's description, or the description of the car, is urged to come forward."