Police Step Up Patrols Following Dalkeith Sex Attack

Police have stepped up patrols in Dalkeith after a woman was subjected to a serious sexual assault as she made her way home after a night-out.

The 27-year-old was attacked after getting off a bus on Lauder Road at about 3.45am yesterday.

A man approached her and forced her into a wooded area of land between Lauder Road and Wester Kippielaw Drive before carrying out the attack.

He is described as white, aged about 20, about 5ft 7ins and of very slim build.

He has short dark hair and was wearing tight fitted jeans and a shiny black hooded top.

It is thought the man may have been at a local nightclub earlier in the evening and may have been thrown out.

Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and carrying out door-to-door inquiries in the area while patrols have been stepped up.

Chief inspector Kenny Simpson said: Thankfully, offences of this nature are rare, however this does not lessen the trauma experienced by a victim and family.

Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe and treats all reports of sexual offences with the utmost seriousness.

Police patrols have now been stepped up in Dalkeith and surrounding area to provide a reassuring presence in the community."