A MAN is in hospital after being hit round the face in an alleged robbery.

The 26-year-old Weymouth man was walking up Chapelhay Steps next to Holy Trinity Church on Sunday evening when the attack is said to have happened.

Police said he suffered serious injuries and is being treated in hospital. His keys, wallet and mobile phone were stolen.

Two people – a 22-year-old Portland man and a 23-year-old Weymouth man - have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and are helping police with their enquiries.

Now, officers are appealing to anyone with information to come forward. They especially want to hear from anyone who saw a group of men running away from the scene.

Cllr Francis Drake, Weymouth and Portland Borough Council community safety briefholder, came across the scene on Sunday.

He said: “I had been to the Remembrance Service at the church and was walking to the Guildhall when I passed the police and ambulance. The man was sitting up, but was bleeding in the head, he appeared to have been injured quite badly.”

He echoed calls for witnesses to come forward.

“If anyone saw anything, it is so important that they contact police, so officers can get a proper picture of what happened. I hope the man who was injured is recovering well.

“It is such a concern when incidents like this happen. It is unbelievable really.”

Cllr Jon Orrell, who represents the Weymouth East ward on the borough council said he was 'shocked and surprised' to hear what had happened.

He added: "I wish the victim a speedy and complete recovery and would also like to call on the public to assist the police in their enquiries in any way they can."

Police said the incident happened between 7.30pm and 8pm on Sunday, November 13.

A spokesman for the force said the man was walking up the steps when he was allegedly hit in the face with an object. He sustained serious injuries to his face.

Detective Constable Gerald Marchant, of Weymouth CID, said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw the incident or witnessed a group of men running away from the area at the relevant time to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55160171018. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org