A shopkeeper was seriously injured as he fought off attackers who tried to rob him and who retaliated with "a shocking level of violence" when he refused their demands for cash.

The two men entered A&A Stores, on the corner of South Trinity Road and Cargill Terrace in Edinburgh, at around 5.20pm on Friday and demanded money.

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They attacked the shopkeeper before leaving the store, and were last seen heading along Cargill Terrace.

Detective Sergeant Todd Rutherford, of Corstorphine CID, said: "This was a cowardly attack, and the shopkeeper bravely fought off the attackers despite a shocking level of violence and the serious injuries he sustained.

"At the time of the incident, it is likely there would have been pedestrians and drivers in the Cargill Terrace area and we know the suspects were loitering near the shop before the incident took place.

"If anyone has seen these men before, during or after the attack, please contact us."

The first suspect is described as 20-25, of medium build, with a pale complexion and unshaven.

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The second suspect is described as 35-40, slim, with a pale complexion, gaunt features and unshaven.

Both suspects wore dark clothing and dark woollen beanie hats and one was wearing a dark body warmer.