POLICE are probing the death of a Weymouth man who suffered a fatal head injury in the street.

A man, aged 25, has been arrested in connection with the incident and police are appealing to the community for information.

The 44-year-old, known locally as Paddy, died in hospital after sustaining a life threatening injury to his head. He lived in Turton Street and was well-known in the area. Local residents spoke of their shock at his death.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “He was a nice bloke. It’s a really sad thing to have happened. I drank with him a few times and he seemed like a decent guy.”

Borough councillor for Melcombe Regis Ray Banham said he was saddened to hear the news.

He said: “Obviously we don’t know what happened but my condolences go out to the family and it’s a very sad time for them.

“I really do feel for them at this tragic time. Whatever the facts are, it’s still really sad for those who knew him.”

Detectives said the man was seen to fall over in the street at around 8pm on Sunday.

A Dorset Police spokesman said investigators are keen to establish the full circumstance of the incident.

He said: “The incident occurred on Turton Street, near to the Duke of Albany public house at around 8pm on Sunday, September 2.

“The victim, a 44-year-old man from Weymouth, was seen to fall over in the street. He sustained a life threatening injury to his head, he later died in hospital.

“A 25-year-old man from Weymouth has been arrested in connection with the incident and is helping with enquiries.”

Police have not yet officially released the deceased’s name.

Detective Inspector Stewart Dipple, of Weymouth CID, said: “This is a very sad incident and we are keen to establish the facts.

“I understand that there were several people in the vicinity.

He added: “We would very much like to speak to anyone who has any information that may help us determine exactly what happened.”

The coroner and next of kin have been informed.

Anyone with information can call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 2:440 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.