A 20-year-old man who was hospitalised with head injuries in a mass brawl is now in a 'stable' condition.

Epping Forest District Council  said they are looking 'very carefully' into taking action against The Villa Nightclub in Cottis Lane, whose licensing hours could be restricted.

An Essex Police spokeswoman confirmed that the hospitalised man involved in a fight with up to 20 men in High Street, Epping, at 2.50am on Sunday (March 1)  is no longer in a critical condition.

She added two other men, one in his 20s and one in his 30s, who received treatment in hospital for "minor puncture wounds" to the lower body and facial injuries were now recovering.

The police renewed their appeal for witnesses and have been speaking to the owners of local bars and clubs who have been assisting officers with their investigation.

The men involved are not believed by police to have attended Club 195 and owner David King has been 'proactively' helping officers.

Ds Katherine Clarke said: "We’re really grateful for the response of the public so far but would still urge anyone with information to get in touch.

"We’re currently reviewing CCTV and liaising with local bar owners who continue to be really helpful with our enquiries.”

Following the brawl and after a stabbing in September, a spokesman for Epping Forest District Council said they were 'very concerned at the latest incident' and were helping police with their inquiries.

He said: "The focus of the investigation is around the incident at the Villa.

"We have a duty to apply licensing legislation according to the law.

"That includes taking into account the views of residents, other businesses and of course the police.

"We will be listening to them particularly carefully in light of this most recent incident to see what measures are appropriate.

"The night-time economy of Epping brings jobs and income to the town, but this has to be balanced against the legitimate concerns of the police and local residents.

"We will look at any new information very carefully in assessing whether any further action needs to be considered."

The spokesman added: "We are also co-operating with Essex Police in providing High Street CCTV pictures."

The Villa have been approached for comment.

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Loughton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.