THREE teenagers have been arrested in connection with an alleged assault at The Marsh playing fields in Weymouth.

A man was taken to hospital for treatment for head and facial injuries after police were called to reports of a 'disturbance' outside the Moonfleet Indoor Bowls club at The Marsh on Saturday evening.

A 14 year-old girl and two boys aged 15 and 16 were later arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

Police confirmed the victim had been walking a dog with his daughter at the time of the alleged attack.

A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It's absolutely vile, terrible that the poor child had to witness that.

"We've had a lot of problems with groups youths round here – they're always at the Marsh and have no respect for authority."

Dorset Police said officers will be patrolling the area in response to concerns about anti-social behaviour.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "At 8.04pm on Saturday March 14 Dorset Police received a report of a disturbance outside the Moonfleet Indoor Bowls Club in Knightsdale Road in Weymouth.

"Officers attended and found a man with head and facial injuries. It was reported that the man had been assaulted by a group of teenagers in the car park.

"The victim was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries and was released later that night.

"Three local teenagers – a 14-year-old girl, and two boys aged 15 and 16 – were arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent. They have been released under investigation as officers carry out further enquiries into the incident.

"Local officers from the Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Policing Team are aware of issues concerning reported anti-social behaviour in the area, have been and will continue to carry out proactive patrols. Officers can be approached by members of the community with any concerns."