Two men stabbed in a murder bid were brothers, it has emerged.

The "appalling" daylight attack on the pair happened after they travelled more than 100 miles to buy a car.

The victims, one of whom is in a critical condition, have been named locally as Peter and James Stewart, aged 43 and 45 respectively.

The violent attack happened at about 6pm on Wednesday in Edinburgh's Wardieburn Place West.

The men had travelled to the capital from the Aberdeen area on the understanding that they were going to purchase a vehicle.

Both were attacked in a common stair by two men, who quickly fled the scene.

The victims were left with serious injuries, with Peter in a critical condition. He is understood to have been stabbed in the heart.

Officers, who are treating the incident as an attempted murder, want to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the attackers.

The first suspect is described as being a white man, aged between 17 and 19.

He has a central Scotland accent and light-coloured short hair, which is shaved at the sides. He was wearing a light sky-blue hooded sweatshirt and grey jogging bottoms.

The second suspect is a white man in his mid-twenties. He has a stocky build and was wearing a striped top.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston said previously: ''This was an appalling attack on two men who came to the address in good faith.

''This attack happened in daylight and we believe there may be a number of witnesses who may have seen the suspects in the area.

''Anyone with information that can help with our enquiries is urged to contact police immediately.''

Police Scotland can be contacted on 101 while Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111.