Police are appealing for witnesses after a 14-year-old girl was assaulted in East Lothian.

The girl was walking in School Lane, Cockenzie, at around 10pm on Monday when she was grabbed from behind by a man and punched in the face several times.

She managed to break free before fleeing to nearby Edinburgh Road, where she summoned help.

The girl sustained minor injuries as a result of the assault and police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

The suspect is described as white, in his mid 20s, around 5ft 8ins tall with a broad build and a wide boxer-like nose.

He was wearing dark trousers, a dark green hooded top with the hood up and a dark0coloured scarf pulled over his mouth. He spoke with a Scottish accent.

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: "This appears to have been a completely random and unprovoked attack that has left the young victim immensely distressed as a result.

"Anyone who was in or around School Lane around 10pm on Monday and saw anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately. We have a fairly detailed description of the suspect and anyone who recognises his description should also get in touch as soon as possible."

He added: "Anyone with information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or the charity, Crimestoppers, in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111."