A MAN who attacked a 21-year-old with a bladed weapon on New Year’s Day in Dunfermline is still on the loose.

Police have now stepped up their hunt for the attacker, who has yet to be identified more than two weeks after the assault.

The male victim was rushed to hospital with a “horrendous injury” to his neck after the incident, which happened between 4-5am in the Monastery Street area of the town.

Neighbours living close to the scene were left shocked. None wanted to be named for fear of reprisals, but one said: “He didn’t deserve that to happen to him. It’s tragic for the young lad and he’s just lucky that it wasn’t worse.”

Another commented: “It’s so sad. This street becomes a different place at night with people leaving pubs and clubs.

“There’s been petty vandalism before but nothing like this. To have something like this happen is horrible.”

Police have now issued a fresh appeal for two potential witnesses with vital information to come forward and help their investigation.

Detective Sergeant Christopher Dow, of Dunfermline CID, said: “This has been a particularly frightening experience for the victim and he has suffered a very serious and painful injury. 

“As part of this investigation, we are specifically interested in speaking to two people in the area who may have vital information.

“The man and woman are believed to have come from the Kirkgate area, onto St Catherine’s Wynd and then onto Monastery Street. The woman was holding a cream-coloured handbag.

“These individuals, or anyone else with any relevant information, are asked to contact police immediately.”

Police believe the attacker is an Asian man in his mid-20s, between 5ft9 and 6ft tall with a medium build, dark hair and a trimmed, dark beard. He was wearing a dark-coloured tracksuit.