A violent pervert has been jailed for 18 years for an appalling catalogue of offences involving children.

Forty-nine-year-old Ronald Falvey subjected his victims to sexual and physical abuse.

He was accused of 23 charges including four of rape, eight of indecent assault, two of sexual assault and one of indecency with a child.

The other charges were attempted indecency with a child, sexual intercourse with a girl, three charges of assault causing actual bodily harm, one of cruelty and one of false imprisonment.

Falvey, of Speedwell Avenue, Chatham, denied all the counts but was convicted.

Judge Jeremy Gold QC said the evidence was overwhelming.

Maidstone Crown Court heard Falvey, who previously lived in Dartford, Erith and Swanscombe, started committing the offences 20 years ago.

John O'Higgins, prosecuting, said victims described Falvey's controlling and violent behaviour.

Marion Smullen, defending, said the "turning point" for Falvey seemed to be when he suffered a severe injury at the age of 23.

Judge Gold said Falvey's continued denials in court forced victims to give evidence.

The judge said he had decided against imposing an indeterminate sentence for public protection.

But he added: "These are offences of the utmost gravity.

"I would be failing in my duty if I did not mark these appalling offences by a substantial sentence of imprisonment."

Falvey had been diagnosed as having a paranoid personality disorder and a depressive illness.

"Nevertheless, there is no doubt you were fully responsible for your actions over the period concerned," said Judge Gold.

A sexual offences prevention order was imposed for life and Falvey will be banned from working with children or vulnerable adults.

His name will appear on the sex offenders' register for life.

Almost a year spent in custody will count towards the sentence.