AN attack on Russian students in the middle of Worcester which was caught on CCTV has been branded "an affront to public decency".

Vivid footage of the street violence involving Damien Lloyd and his friend John Hill was shown to Worcester Crown Court.

After watching the video, Recorder Anthony Palmer QC commented: "It was disgraceful, an affront to public decency".

Lloyd, aged 25, and his 22-year-old accomplice Hill were said to have been drinking heavily. They admitted being involved in violent disorder.

Lloyd, of York Close, Malvern, was jailed for nine months and ordered to serve an additional 360 days of an unexpired prison sentence imposed for criminal damage.

Hill, of Buckingham Close, also in Malvern, was ordered to carry out 100 hours' community work.

Jonathan Richards, prosecuting, pointed out the pair on the film raining punches and kicks on the Russian students.

Lloyd told police that he had taken 11 ecstasy tablets over the previous three days as well as drinking heavily. His barrister, William Rickarby, told the court he had initially tried to act as a peacemaker when violence was started by the students.

He had gone to Hill's aid but had been drawn into the violence. Mr Rickarby pointed out that other people involved in the affray had been treated favourably, with charges being dropped.

Michael Anning, for Hill, said he had no history of violence and was disgusted with himself for acting out of character. He had been drinking persistently for the previous 24 hours and this caused him to act in an increasingly obnoxious way.

But no significant injuries had been caused and Hill had lurched around aiming kicks which rarely landed before he fell over.

Recorder Palmer said he took into consideration the fact that no weapons were used and no major injuries caused.