A judge branded three brothers "thugs" after a man was attacked outside a St Albans night club.

Judge John Plumstead ordered Josh, Kane and Ryan Viala to abide by six month night-time curfew today to free the city's streets from their "stupidity and violence."

Prosecutor Kevin West told St Albans Crown Court that at 2am on 13 December 2014 the three brothers had left the Havana night club in Victoria Street.

Their group was talking to a woman, who was asked by her house-mate Christopher Lloyd-Evans if she wanted to go home when trouble broke out.

One of the brothers' friends "got into Mr Lloyd-Evans face and then Ryan Viala pushed him," said Mr West.

He went on: "A large scuffle broke out and Ryan Viala ended up on the ground. Josh and Kane ran over to Mr Lloyd-Evans and punched him to the face and kicked him on the floor. They were shouting and swearing."

When the police arrived, a woman officer was injured by her handcuffs as she struggled with Kane Viala on the ground.

Another officer used a PARVA spray to control Josh Viala, who had spat on his leg and helmet.

Ryan Viala, who had left the scene, was later identified by CCTV.

Mr Lloyd-Evans was left with a permanent scar on his nose from a cut. He also suffered a bump on his temple and a lump on his head. His £65 Ralph Lauren polo shirt was ripped.

Kane, 23, of Chace Avenue, Potters Bar, pleaded guilty to affray, causing actual bodily harm and possession of amphetamine.

Josh , 19, of Oakmere Avenue, Potters Bar affray, causing actual bodily harm and assaulting a constable in the execution of her duty.

Ryan, 26, also of Oakmere Avenue, Potters Bar admitted affray.

Defending Josh and Ryan, Max Hardy said: "It was wholly unacceptable behaviour. It was closing time.

"Regrettably, alcohol had been taken and there was misplaced filial loyalty. " He said Josh worked and a builder and Ryan, who coaches football, is a landscape gardener.

Sean Smith, defending Kane, asked for credit for his guilty plea.

Judge John Plumstead said: "They drank more than they could cope with and behaved like thugs."

He ordered them to abide by an electronically-monitored curfew between 10pm and 4am for the next six months saying the streets of St Albans will be free from their "stupidity and violence"

Kane and Josh were each given a six month jail sentence suspended for two years and must both pay the victim £750 compensation. Ryan must pay £250 compensation.