A man was pinned to the ground and repeatedly punched and kicked during a confrontation in Brighton.

Nathan Hailstones had been to a party in Whitehawk when Ashley Ormond stepped out in front of the car he was in, Hove Crown Court was told.

Hailstones argued with Mr Ormond and Hannah Lewis who was with him in Findon Road, at 1.15am on April 26.

He slapped Miss Lewis across the face and was then punched by Mr Ormond as he tried to protect her.

Hailstones hit Mr Ormond back in self-defence knocking him to the ground. Instead of walking away he then sat astride his victim repeatedly punching him in the face.

Some of Hailstones’ friends, who have not been identified, joined in the attack, kicking Mr Ormond.

John Atkinson, prosecuting, said Mr Ormond suffered a cut lip and black eye. Miss Lewis escaped with a cut lip and bruises.

Lewis Power, defending, said: “He is disgusted by his behaviour and apologises to the court.”

Judge David Rennie said he accepted Hailstones, of Cambridge Gardens, Willesden, London, had initially acted lawfully in self defence.

He added: “However, once he was on the ground you crossed a line and you lost control and continued to punch him.

“Others joined in and unlike you their behaviour was completely gratuitous and he was given a kicking.

“I am satisfied you share no responsibility for what they did.”

Hailstones was given a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

He must also take part in alcohol treatment and anger replacement sessions.