A bogus magician tried to rob a 64-year-old man near the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

The incident took place at the top of Cranston Street on Wednesday at 10.50pm.

Police said a man with a large key on a string around his neck approached the victim and asked for money.

When he refused, the man offered to do a magic trick in return for money.

The victim refused again, and the man then threatened him and demanded he hand over money.

Two men intervened and the suspect then fled.

He is described as being between 30 and 35, around 6ft tall and had a slim build.

At the time he wore a parka-style jacket and Doc Marten boots.

Detective constable Iain Wallace of Gayfield CID said: "The victim was thankfully left unharmed as a result of the incident but was left understandably distressed.

"I am keen to trace the two men who stepped in and assisted the victim.

"They stopped in a vehicle, described as being a white flatbed van, on the Royal Mile before the suspect fled.

"Anyone who witnessed what happened, or who recognises the description of the suspect, is asked to get in touch."