A TEENAGE boy has been left with serious facial injuries after being assaulted in Prestonpans.

The incident took place on Thursday (January 23) between 5.30pm and 6.30pm on a grassy area near Mid Road industrial estate.

The 13-year-old was with a group of friends at the Co-op store on Mid Road and was chased by a group of youths and assaulted.

He sustained serious facial injuries and required hospital treatment.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and urging anyone with information to come forward.

The suspects are described as white males aged between 13 and 14 years old.

One was wearing dark coloured jogging bottoms, a blue Armani body warmer and white trainers.

The others were all in dark coloured clothing.

Detective Sergeant Mandy Wilkinson of Dalkeith CID said: “The teenager has been left with a serious injury to his face as a result of this assault and we are eager to trace those responsible as soon as possible.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries in the local area which includes reviewing CCTV footage and I would ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident on Thursday evening, or the group in the Redburn Road or Mid Road areas, to get in contact with officers.

“Equally anyone who has any information to identify those involved should come forward and assist officers as soon as possible.”

Those with information can call police on 101, quoting incident number 1036 of January 24.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.