POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a racially aggravated assault in Eyemouth on Tuesday evening (22nd July).

A 24-year-old Pakistani man and his Latvian wife were walking their dog in Market Place at around 11pm when the suspect approached them as they were standing outside the Kurdi Grill takeaway.

Following an altercation the man received facial injuries. He was taken to Borders General Hospital for treatment.

Officers are currently following a positive line of enquiry to trace the suspect. However, anyone who can assist with this investigation is asked to come forward.

Inspector John Scott said: "We are treating this serious assault as a racially aggravated attack. The victim received serious injuries.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area on Tuesday evening and who remembers witnessing an altercation.

"We will not tolerate any form of hate crime and anyone found to be involved in crimes of this nature can expect to be dealt with by Police Scotland."

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.