A MAN was attacked with a baseball bat after confronting youths he saw damaging his BMW on a Southampton housing estate.

Police said the resident intervened in Durlston Road, Millbrook, after seeing a large group of teenagers vandalising cars parked in nearby Porlock Road.

The gang of about 20 youngsters turned on the man, attacking him with the same baseball bat they had used to cause extensive damage to his car.

Detectives said two members of the public went to intervene but were also injured in the late-night fracas.

The three people, all local residents, suffered cuts and bruises in the incident. Police said at least one needed hospital treatment.

Police have arrested two local boys, aged 14 and 15, in connection with the attack.

Both youths have been released after questioning, pending further police inquiries.

Today Det Sgt Dave Morgan, of Shirley CID, said: "Although no one was seriously injured, this was a terrifying experience for those involved and indeed people living in the area.

"The police will not tolerate this sort of mindless violence."

It is believed the group had been at the local rugby club in Millbrook before going on the rampage around the estate.

The incident happened at about 11.45pm last Friday but details were not disclosed by police until today as officers appealed for more witnesses. Any information to Shirley CID on 0845 045 4545, or the anonymous Southern Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.