A WOMAN has been detained under the mental health act in connection with a stabbing on Weymouth Beach, police say.

As reported Dorset Police was alerted to the incident on Saturday afternoon - and it has now emerged the victim, a woman in her 30s, had been enjoying a seaside trip with family before being attacked for 'no apparent reason.'

The incident happened on the beach at the end of Greenhill opposite the Sea Life Centre.

The victim sustained a stab wound to her leg and was taken to hospital, while a woman in her 30s currently living in Weymouth was arrested in connection with the incident.

In an update police have revealed how a suspect was tasered by officers after being followed from the scene by members of the public.

"Numerous police officers attended the area to provide first aid to the victim and locate the suspect," A spokesman for the Weymouth & Portland Neighbourhood Policing Team added.

"Officers arrived at around 1.50pm and identified the suspect on The Esplanade close to Brunswick Terrace, still armed with the knife."

Dorset Echo: Police maintained a heavy presence at the scene after the attackPolice maintained a heavy presence at the scene after the attack

The victim and the suspect were taken to Dorchester County Hospital for treatment. The victim is recovering at home and receiving support from CID Detectives who are now leading the investigation.

The suspect has subsequently been detained under the Mental Health Act.

Neighbourhood Inspector David Parr said: “This is an extremely rare incident for Weymouth.

"The victim was enjoying a day out with her family when she was attacked for no apparent reason. I am grateful to the members of the public who helped the victim and also followed the suspect until the police arrived - I appreciate how distressing this incident may have been to witness.

"There was a significant police presence along The Esplanade on Saturday in response to the incident and I can confirm no other suspects are outstanding.” 

Melcombe Regis councillor Tia Roos expressed dismay over the attack.

"It’s really sad when incidents like these happen," she said. "I hope the victim is doing okay. Sadly I feel like much could be prevented if people got the right support from services at the right time.

"In the end all we can hope is that whatever issues arose they’re eventually resolved and that in the end everyone ends up okay or getting the support they need."