Detectives investigating an attack which left a man fighting for his life have arrested a man. 

Dorset Police yesterday made renewed appeals to find a suspect following a violent assault in Weymouth on Saturday morning.

Officers said at around 5.30am the victim, a man aged in his 40s, was assaulted by an unknown man outside Nautico Lounge in St Thomas Street.

It is believed that the victim was struck by his own crutches during the attack.

He suffered head and back injuries and is currently in a life-threatening condition in hospital.

Police have now arrested a 24-year-old man of no fixed abode on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and possession of a class A drug.

He is currently assisting officers with enquiries. 

Yesterday, Detective Sergeant Mark Portelli, of Weymouth CID, said: “Our investigation into this incident is continuing and we are still keen to hear from any witnesses.

“We have also not recovered the victim’s crutches and I would urge anyone who might have information as to where these might be to contact us."

Detectives released images of a suspect in the hope that anybody who recognises him would come forward.

Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Cllr Kevin Brookes, urged residents to assist police in the investigation.

He said: “I am appealing to anyone who might have seen this man to contact the police immediately. Although the images are quite grainy, the clothing he is wearing for that time in the morning is quite distinctive.

“This behaviour is totally unacceptable and we must do our duty and help the police wherever we can.”

The attack comes as the borough council have been working with partners to reduce crime and disorder in the town.

The recently established Melcombe Regis Board is a multiagency body set up to improve quality of life in the ward, particularly through tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Brookes said: “I know the council is working very closely with the police and health authorities to halt anti-social behaviour, particularly in Melcombe Regis and the Park District, and it is a shame to hear such news when everybody is working so hard.

“While there does seem to be trend in violence in the town, these serious attacks just seem to be completely irrational.”

Councillor Jason Osborne, who represents the Melcombe Regis ward, said: “Violence in the town centre seems to be a growing trend at the moment and an unwelcome one. I am not quite sure what is fuelling it, but it seems to be getting a little bit out of control now.

“I’m not sure what we can do about it, but something needs to be done. Whether that is more police officers on the streets, better CCTV, or more stop and searches.

“We need to look as these people committing these crimes to find where there is a link and nip this in the bud. We need to start being proactive rather than reactive.”

Local police officers will increase patrols in the town centre following the attack. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55170152621. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.