THE MAYOR of Weymouth said he was 'shocked and disappointed' to hear a man suffered head injuries during an assault in the town centre - as he appealed for those responsible to hand themselves to police.
Police are appealing to the public for any information on the assault which happened on Tuesday June 22 just before 11pm near to the King’s Statue on The Esplanade.
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Police said a 38-year-old Weymouth man was approached by four people - two men and two women. He was then assaulted by two young men in black tracksuits from the group and taken to hospital with head injuries.
In response, mayor of Weymouth Colin Huckle said the assault is shocking and disappointing, but an isolated one within an area which is 'not troubled with violence'.
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He said: "I'm very disappointed to learn of this assault - it's shocking because it's an area not troubled by violence.
"I would say it's an isolated incident and I'm aware it happened around 10.30pm, but these types of things should not happen at any time or anywhere."
Police said after the assault the group walked toward the Premier store on The Esplanade.
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Mr Huckle said: "It's possible the two young men were showing off in front of the two young women.
"The police now need help with this so if anyone has information please come forward.
"I would urge those responsible to hand themselves in and face the consequences.
"A man was put in hospital - they need to be brought to justice."
Police Constable Ryan Lloyd, of Weymouth Police, said: "This was an unprovoked attack that left the victim very shaken and confused as he did not know the offenders.
"Since the incident we have made a number of enquiries trying to identify those responsible.
"I'm hoping that there are more witnesses out there who have not yet spoken with police and I would urge them to please come forward.
"I would also like to hear from anyone who may have information about the offenders that could help our investigation."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210099817. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.
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