Police officers were needed to break-up a huge pub brawl which left more than 20 people injured.

Violence broke out at the Bread and Cheese pub, London Road, Thundersley, at closing time on Saturday.

During the fight between drinkers and a stag party, around 30 people were punched, kicked and headbutted.

One man, who suffered a large cut to the top of his head, lay unconscious for around ten minutes while the fracas raged around him. He was eventually taken to Basildon Hospital.

Chief Insp Dave King of Rayleigh police said: "We received a 999 call saying there was a fight between about 30 people and that one man was bleeding heavily.

"The trouble had started as the stag party left and they were set upon by a group of youngsters.

"In all, around 20 people went to hospital for treatment for injuries caused by punches, kicks and from headbutts."

Three men were arrested at the scene and were today helping police with their inquiries.

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