A Sussex University student violently attacked two security guards who tried to break up a noisy party, a court heard.

Edward Coy, who is studying history of art, punched the officers who went to the halls of residence following a complaint about loud music and late-night noise.

Coy, who has never been in trouble before, hit one of the officers with a chair and during a struggle spat in his face.

Coy, 22, of Cromwell Road, London, admitted two charges of common assault when he appeared before Brighton magistrates.

He was fined £400 and ordered to pay both his victims £100 compensation.

Adam Wiseman, defending, said Coy came from a professional, law-abiding family and was described by family and friends as being bright, sensible and kind.

He said Coy, who had been drinking, felt remorse for his behaviour on the night in November, last year, and had written letters of apology to the two officers.

He said a disciplinary tribunal at the university had warned him he would be expelled if there was a repeat of the behaviour. He was allowed to continue with his studies but had been banned from living on campus and was now travelling from London to attend lectures.

He added: "There is shame, embarrassment and distress not only for him, but for his family."