Extra police officers were sent to Colchester town centre early today after a fight involving up to 300 people.

Police were first called to the High Street shortly after 3.10am on Friday and found one man, aged in his 20s, unconscious. He was taken to hospital in a serious condition.

A number of other fights broke out in the area and a “significant number” of extra officers had to be called in from other parts of Essex to deal with the disorder and restore calm.

Two other men with minor injuries were also taken to hospital for treatment.

Two ambulances, three hazardous area response team vehicles and a rapid response vehicle were sent by the ambulance service.

Three men, aged 20, 21 and 23 and all from London, have been arrested on suspicion of assault and are being questioned at Colchester police station.

Chief Inspector Richard Melton said: “As soon as we became aware of this situation we responded in numbers to restore order and make sure that members of the public were kept safe.

“We will not allow Colchester or anywhere else in Essex to be used as a venue for such disgraceful behaviour.

“We responded quickly and effectively to quell this disorder and we will be taking further steps to identify the main people responsible and prevent any repeat events.”

A force spokesman said the cause of the fight was under investigation, but it is understood that the majority of those involved had recently left a nightclub following a special event.

He added: “We will be speaking to the licensee about arrangements for any such future events.”

The force would not reveal how many officers were deployed, citing “operational reasons”, but added riot police were not used.

Essex Rampage, a student pub crawl around Colchester ending in Liquid/Envy nightclub on the High Street, took place last night.

In the event students wear T-shirts which double up as their ticket.

A nightclub spokesman said: “Liquid Colchester is a well-run, professional club and we do not tolerate anti-social behaviour of any kind.

“Unfortunately, during a promoter led event last night, there was an isolated incident outside the club.

“We will be working closely with the police to make sure that those involved are identified and appropriate action taken.”