TWO 15-year-old schoolboys and a 17-year-old are the latest to be charged over an attack on a Portland couple.

The two Portland youths and the 17-year-old, from Weymouth, were charged after the attack on a couple walking through Easton that left them needing hospital treatment.

The news comes amid a crackdown on anti-social behaviour on the island which has seen 12 arrests since residents called for police action.

Today, the island’s safer neighbourhood team is handing a letter out to locals, telling them of the increased police patrols and asking them to attend a new meeting at Easton Methodist Church Hall.

In his letter to residents, Sergeant Neil Wood said: “I consider these achievements a good start and although the situation has improved, there is still work to be done.”

He writes that action is being taken and results are being achieved.

Steve Pearce, owner of the Codfather fish and chip shop, in Weston Road, said he has seen more police walking the streets.

He added: “There’s nothing better than to see a community policeman walking around.

“We have seen them walking more lately and that’s great.

“The more you see walking around the better.

“We need to see them walking and not driving.”

Investigations into the attack in Easton on Saturday, July, 3, have resulted in seven arrests in total.

A 19-year-old has already been charged with grievous bodily harm and is in custody ahead of an appearance at Dorchester Crown Court.

One of the 15-year-old Portland boys has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and a public order offence while the second has been charged with grievous bodily harm.

The 17-year old, from Weymouth, has been arrested and charged with grievous bodily harm.

A 14-year-old Portland boy is among the three arrests that have not resulted in charges.

Tim Munro, a councillor for Weymouth and Portland, welcomed the police efforts.

He said: “They seem to be making an effort for sure.

“And I think it’s a real positive move that they’ve been on their feet again.

“People feel more comfortable if they are walking instead of driving past when they can’t get to speak to them.”

Chaz Charlton, pub landlord and Portland town councillor, said the extra patrols have been ‘fantastic’.

He added: “If people see the police on the island that’s a deterrent.

“This is what we need to remember.

“The increased presence is fantastic and we applaud that.”

Sgt Wood is encouraging residents to attend the public meeting at Easton Methodist Church Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday, August 24.