A MAN suffered a head injury after he was attacked by two would-be thieves at a social club in Wimborne.

The victim, a man in his 50s, was closing the Colehill Sports and Social Club in Wimborne Road shortly before 12.10am yesterday, Tuesday, when he was assaulted.

He told police two men smashed through a glass patio door to get inside the building.

The victim then armed himself with a chair and challenged the two men. During the row, he was hit over the head with an unknown object.

The two men then ran away on foot.

It is not believed anything was stolen during the incident.

The victim suffered a cut to his head and elbow and was taken to hospital for treatment.

The first offender is described as white, taller than five feet ten inches and of slim build. He was wearing a hooded top with the hood pulled up over his face. The second offender was described as having a similar appearance and clothing.

Detective Constable Chris Griffin, of Bournemouth CID, said: "This was a particularly nasty incident for the victim to endure and I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area at the time to please come forward.

"A search of the area was carried out with assistance from the dog unit and NPAS helicopter, but no one was located.

"I would like to reassure the public that a detailed investigation is underway to identify the offenders.

"Enquiries are continuing today, including house-to-house visits, and searches will be carried out in the vicinity to see if any possible weapons were discarded. A cordon will remain in place at the club to allow investigators to examine the scene."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at orset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170173732.