A Weymouth man has been charged in connection with an alleged aggravated burglary in which a man in his 50s was reportedly badly beaten.

Detectives investigating the incident in Gillingham are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

At around 2.30pm on Tuesday, October 13 it is reported that two men armed with batons entered a commercial premises off Newbury in the north Dorset town and demanded money from the occupant.

It is alleged that the occupant – a local man aged in his 50s – was assaulted and sustained serious injuries, which are not deemed to be life-threatening.

Grant Edward Chase, 29, from Weymouth has been charged with aggravated burglary and wounding with intent and appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Saturday October 17.

He is next due to appear at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday 20 November 2020.

Detectives are keen to identify a second man who reportedly attended the address. He is described as white, of average build and wore dark, baggy clothing with the hood up and a face covering.

Detective Constable Kim Williams, of Weymouth CID, said: “I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the reported incident or saw anyone matching the description given to please contact Dorset Police urgently.”

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 55200154257. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.