WORRYING reports of a group roaming around Weymouth in the early hours armed with knives and attacking people has prompted a police investigation and an urgent appeal.

At least two people were injured in the spate of violence yesterday and a driver was threatened, police said.

As well as appealing for witnesses and for anyone else to come forward if they were confronted by the group police want to hear from a ‘Good Samaritan’ who tried to help the driver.

A 20-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a bladed article with intent to cause fear of violence.

Dorset Police said at around 3.10am on Sunday, December 3 officers were called to reports that a group of people were walking around the town provoking fights and assaulting members of the public.

It is reported that during the incident a driver of a Citroen was threatened in Park Street car park by individuals who were armed with knives. Two women sustained minor injuries during the incident.

A person who lives near Park Street car park said: “I heard some screaming and shouting but in this area you kind of get used to it because Saturday nights get quite loud, but I didn’t see anything. Usually in this area on Saturday nights there is weird things going on so you kind of get used to it.”

Weymouth Town Councillor Jon Orrell said: “I am shocked to hear the news of this incident in Weymouth. Weymouth is normally a very safe place to come for an evening out and has received awards for it. I am pleased to hear that no-one was seriously hurt and I urge anyone with information that can help to the police to contact them.”

Detective Constable Nick Hunter, of County CID, said: “This was an unprovoked incident that involved an unknown number of people and I would like to reassure the public that a full and thorough investigation is underway.

“As part of my enquiries, I would like to identify anyone who was assaulted, threatened or witnessed the reported events in the early hours of the morning.

“I am particularly keen to identify the driver of the Citroen driver who was reportedly threatened by the group, an elderly man who was in the area and was approached and a Good Samaritan who tried to intervene.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230189927.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.