A woman was targeted in a "frightening" sex attack in Edinburgh city centre.

The 26-year-old victim was in Rose Street Lane around 4am on Tuesday when she briefly spoke to the man, officers said.

Police said the attacker, who walked with a limp and a walking stick, assaulted her before making off at Hope Street.

Detective inspector Donnie MacLeod said: "This was a very frightening ordeal for the victim and we are now pursuing various lines of inquiry to trace the male responsible.

"Despite the early hour, there were potentially a number of witnesses in the area and I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious on Rose Street Lane or Rose Street to contact police immediately.

"In particular, we are keen to speak to some workmen who the victim believes were working nearby at the time of the attack and these individuals are asked to get in touch to help with our investigation.

The attacker was in his mid-20s and was about 6ft tall with short, brown hair. He walked with a limp, had a metal walking stick and was carrying a rucksack.

At the time of the attack, he was wearing blue jeans, a grey T-shirt and black trainers.

Anyone with information can contact the police on 101.