Motorcyclists have helped police officers detain a man who was wanted for failing to appear in court.

Officers from Dorset Police detained the wanted man along the Esplanade last night after receiving help from a group of passing motorcyclists.

The wanted man was apprehended after 'a bit of a tussle' as officers were conducting licensing checks at several premises in the town ahead of the football.

A spokesperson for Weymouth Police said: "Officers from the neighbourhood team have been on patrol this evening conducting licensing checks at several premises around Weymouth due to the England football match.

"This is to build relationships and intelligence with licensed premises to prevent the risk of any disorder. We are please that there was no football related issues this evening.

However, whilst on patrol just after the match had finished officers saw a male walking along The Esplanade that they knew was wanted for failing to appear at court recently and the magistrates had issued a warrant.

"Unfortunately the male still didn't want to return to court when he was approached by officers and immediately resisted and tried to get away.

"After a bit of a tussle the male was detained with the assistance of some passing motorcyclists who kindly assisted and then other officers arrived. We will ensure he is returned to court for the matter to be dealt with."