THREE 13-year-old girls have been charged with reckless conduct after a young boy was struck by a cone in a shopping centre in Edinburgh.

The seven-year-old was hit by the cone which was dropped from the second floor of Ocean Terminal on Boxing Day.

He had been about to climb the stairs near Debenhams when he was struck on the leg.

The boy was not harmed but police said they had been carrying out inquiries to trace those responsible.

The three girls have charged with culpable and reckless conduct and reported to the children's panel.

PC Nicole Napier who is based at Leith Police Station said: "This was a senseless act that had to potential to seriously injure or worse.

"We have now charged three teenagers in connection with this matter and I wish to thank everyone who assisted throughout the course of our investigation."