Police are appealing for information after a "callous" thief snatched a disabled woman's handbag in Edinburgh.

The 53-year-old was travelling on a mobility scooter when the man pounced from behind and grabbed her bag.

The robbery happened on the city's Meadow Park Lane at around 1.45pm on Wednesday.

The victim had spotted the man in a post office on Brougham Street prior to the attack and police believe the thief followed her from the store.

He then snatched her bag before making off into Roseneath Terrace, Roseneath Place and Warrender Park Road.

A police spokesman said: “This was a callous crime, carried out by an individual who obviously has no qualms about preying on vulnerable members of the public.

“We want anyone who was in the Post Office in Brougham Street between 1pm and 1.30pm yesterday, who saw the suspect there, to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone who was in the area of Meadow Park Lane, and witnessed the bag snatch, should also get in touch.  We would also like to speak to anyone who recognises the description of the suspect.”

He is described as white, between 30 and 40 years old, between 5'6" and 5'8" and with a stocky build. He had a gaunt face and short hair and was wearing a red baseball cap, a light green coloured jacket and white trainers.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.