A YOUNG man suffered serious injuries including a fractured jaw when he was beaten up in Weymouth town centre.

Police said the victim, a 20-year-old local man, was allegedly attacked as he walked home from a pub in the early hours.

The victim was knocked to the ground in Great George Street, near the Westham Road junction.

A number of people came to his aid following the attack and police want to trace them.

It is understood the victim has since undergone surgery in hospital.

A man has been arrested and been quizzed over the incident.

Detectives investigating the assault are now appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.

They will be checking footage from local CCTV cameras as part of the investigation.

The incident happened between 3.30am and 3.45am last Thursday in Great George Street. Details were only released by officers today.

Newly-elected borough councillor for the area Jason Osborne backed the police appeal for information.

He said: "It is worrying to hear about this and anyone who saw or heard anything should contact the police, whether it was shouting, or someone running away. They may not want to get involved but it could help the police a great deal; information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers."

Cllr Osborne said crime, anti-social behaviour and public safety in Melcombe Regis was among the issues highlighted by residents when he knocked on doors in the run-up to the election, and he wants to meet with the police and others to discuss issues.

Detective Constable Gerald Marchant, of Weymouth CID, said: “The victim was walking home from a pub in the town centre when he was allegedly knocked to the ground.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed this incident or has any information to please call me urgently on 101.

“I am particularly keen to hear from a number of members of public from Westham Road who helped the victim.”

A 24-year-old man from Weymouth has been arrested on suspicion of assault and is currently assisting police with their enquiries.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 22:305. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.