A violent criminal who held a knife to a delivery driver’s throat has been jailed.

Jimmy Lee approached a supermarket vehicle in London Road, Gravesend, on November 9.

Appearing intoxicated, he got in the vehicle via the passenger door, demanded a lift, and grew aggressive when this was dismissed - taking out a knife and holding it to the driver’s throat.

Fearing for his safety, the supermarket worker drove slowly towards the town centre during which time Lee punched him in the head and stole his wallet and gloves.

The victim then spotted a vehicle containing paramedics and managed to exit the van and seek assistance while Lee was distracted.

The attacker then got out of the vehicle holding the driver’s rucksack and coat but was soon detained by police who’d arrived at the scene.

Lee, of York Road, Northfleet, later pleaded guilty to kidnap at Woolwich Crown Court.

On March 22, the 36-year-old was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer PC Chelsey Farmer said: “Lee’s victim suffered an appalling ordeal and was genuinely in fear he would suffer significant harm.

“Lee is a violent man who was already armed with a knife when he targeted a delivery driver who was just doing his job.”