TWO people were rushed to hospital following an alleged aggravated burglary in Lyme Regis.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident just before 8am yesterday in South Avenue.

Eyewitnesses told the Echo that police and forensic officers were seen working at the scene for a number of hours.

A man was arrested in connection with the incident and has been helping police with their investigations.

Officers are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Chief Inspector Ian Roe said: "Dorset Police can confirm the two victims are being treated in hospital as a result of this incident.

"They do not have life-threatening injuries.

"Weymouth CID is investigating this incident as an alleged aggravated burglary.

"Police scene examination has been complete and a male suspect remains in custody."

Residents spoke of their shock to see police and forensic officers in the area.

David Croad, who lives in South Avenue, said: "It's not what I would ever expect to happen right by my home.

“They were going in and out of a property and forensics turned up after that.”

Another resident, who did not want to be named, added: "We were shocked to see emergency services on the road.”

He added: “We don't know the victims but we are all hoping that they are okay."

Teresa Evemy, chairman of the Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Committee, said: “It must have been quite a shock for the residents on South Avenue. It's not what you really expect to happen around here. I hope those involved are okay.”

Another South Avenue resident added: “Luckily, the two people who were injured sound like they are going to be okay.”

Chief Inspector Ian Roe urged anyone with information concerning the incident to get in touch with officers.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 05:123.