A SOLDIER has been banned from a popular bar after attacking door staff with a bottle.

Samuel Wesson, who is based at Merville Barracks in Colchester attacked men who were working at Yates in the town centre while on a night out in December.

At Colchester Magistrates' Court, the 21-year-old admitted a string of charges including two counts of assault causing actual bodily harm, criminal damage to one of the doorman's glasses and damaging a police car.

Wesson, 21, was handed a 30 week prison sentence but magistrates decided to suspend the term for a year.

The bench decided it was a necessary deterrent because Wesson punched and used the bottle on two men who were working at the time.

He was of previous good character, and given glowing references by his superiors in the Army.

Wesson cannot go to the Head Street bar for the next 12 months.

He must also carry out 120 hours of unpaid work.

Wesson has been ordered to pay £125 compensation to Essex Police for the damage he caused, £150 to one doorman for the assault and £30 to the same man to replace his damaged glasses.

The other member of Yates staff involved will receive £300 compensation while Wesson must also hand over a £115 victim surcharge and £85 costs.