THE manager of a West Moors pub was reportedly taken to hospital following a fight on Monday evening.

The fight broke out at the Tap and Railway pub in Station Road.

Dorset Police said one person was taken to hospital following the incident.

The victim suffered bruising and swelling to his head.

His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Police and ambulance crews attended Greene King pub Station Road just before 9pm.

An investigation is now under way.

Commenting on a post in the Spotted West Moors Facebook page, a staff member said the fight started after a group were refused entry to the pub.

She said: “Because the general manager refused entry to a particular group of people after meticulous Covid training. He handled the situation superbly, but sadly suffered as a result.

“The staff have been amazing and have pulled together to ensure we can resume service.”

Meanwhile, resident Julie Octon said: “This has horrified me.

“Decent people trying to do the right thing and run the pub for everybody’s safety but there will always be society’s pond life, dragged up with no moral compass that think it is normal and acceptable to behave like feral sewer rats.”

Janice Keith, another resident, added: “This is such a nice pub and lovely staff they don't deserve this treatment.”

The pub decided not to open on July 4 like many others, and instead opted to wait until Monday to welcome back customers.

It had introduced measures to help keep customers safe and reduce the spread of Covid-19.

For example, customers were asked to use an app to order food and drink, and were also urged to book if they planned on visiting.

The incident comes after Dorset Police thanked the community for a “largely peaceful” weekend.

As reported, Dorset Police chief constable, James Vaughan said there was a decrease in incidents on Saturday and hoped the trend would continue.

Mr Vaughan said: “I hope that the coming weeks will continue to follow the trend we have seen this weekend.

“My message to everyone, whether you are a visitor or a resident, remains that you have a duty to act responsibly and not to become involved in drink related anti-social behaviour or leave your rubbish to litter our beautiful region.

“If we all act responsibly, we can all enjoy a safe summer.”

A spokesperson for the Tap & Railway said: “Providing a safe environment for our customers is of paramount importance and we ask customers to respect the new Covid-19 safety measures we have put in place for them and our team members in line with government guidelines.

"We called the police immediately last night when this incident began and are working closely to support their investigation. We’re back open as normal and would like to thank our team for acting swiftly and professionally throughout.”