A teenager was left seriously injured following a vicious assault in Edinburgh.

The 17-year-old was with friends in the Carrick Knowe Hill are of the city in the early hours of Sunday morning when a row broke out. His attacker head-butted and punched him in the face before heading off towards Carrisk Knowe Grove.

However, just minutes later, the suspect returned with a metal pole and beat his victim with it before making off to a nearby address.

The victim was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with a broken leg and a fractured cheekbone.

A police spokesman said: "This was a vicious assault that has left the victim with serious injuries, and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to get in touch.

"There are reports of a people-carrier style private hire vehicle and a black taxi dropping off passengers in the area prior to the attack, and we would be keen to trace the drivers and passengers, who may have information that can assist our inquiries.

"Anyone who recognises the description to the suspect, or who has any other information that can help our inquiries, should also get in touch."

The attacker is described as being in his late teens or early twenties, between five foot five and five foot nine inches tall and slim. He had short dark hair and a local accent.

Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.