Private hire car driver mistook shots for fireworks

THE private hire driver whose car was blasted with a shotgun in Granton has described how he first mistook the bangs for fireworks, then spend off fearing further shots.

Craig Bolland, 36, was on his way to pick up a fare in Royston Mains Road in the early hours of Monday when he came under fire.

He said he had spotted someone hiding in bushes seconds before the shots rang out, it was reported today.

He said: "Maybe I got caught in a crossfire from someone else's battle. My first reaction was 'What the hell? Fireworks at this time of year?' Then I heard the pellets.

"I just put my foot down and got out of there as quickly as possible. This guy could have gone on a rampage."

Lothian and Borders Police said there was no indication of the motive for the attack. "We want anyone who saw or heard anything to get in touch as soon as possible," said a spokesman.