An Essex man who skipped bail after assaulting people during a karaoke evening has been jailed for nine months.

Joshua Sergeant failed to attend court to face trial for affray outside the Kings Head pub, in Victoria Place, Brightlingsea.

He was convicted in his absence by Chelmsford magistrates for a number of altercations – resulting in a man needing hospital care.

Police caught up with the Brightlingsea 23-year-old, of Bellfield Avenue, on July 28.

He received eight months for affray and one month for breaching bail.

DC Robin Coltman said: “This was a frightening and despicable incident involving innocent members of the public enjoying themselves at a karaoke evening.

“During this incident threats were made, a car was damaged and a number of people were assaulted.

“We would like to thank the members of the public who stood up to Sergeant and assisted us in apprehending him.”