Police are on the hunt for a group of youths who chased down and attacked a 13-year-old boy.
The teenager suffered serious facial injuries that required hospital treatment following the assault in Prestonpans, East Lothian, on Thursday.
The victim had been with a group of friends at the Scotmid store on Redburn Road when he was chased to a grassy area close to Mid Road Industrial Estate.
The attack happened between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.
The suspects are all believed to be aged around 13-14. One was wearing dark-coloured jogging bottoms with a blue Armani body-warmer and white trainers.
Detective sergeant Mandy Wilkinson 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 Wednesday 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.”
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