A MAN who plotted to get himself killed by armed police after being dumped by his girlfriend and having problems with access to his child has been locked up for public protection.

James Cleveland arranged with two friends to be fake hostages at a hostel for the homeless in Crown Quay Lane, Sittingbourne, where they had all been living.

But he terrified two female housing officers, one of whom was pregnant, by pointing a fearsome-looking replica Magnum pistol at them, Maidstone Crown Court was told.

After a stand-off with police lasting through the night, 31-year-old Cleveland gave himself up.

Cleveland and Samuel Saunders, 19, admitted possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence. Desmond James, 41, admitted affray.

Cleveland, of no fixed address, will have to serve two years five months in prison before he will be considered for parole.

James, of no fixed address, was jailed for two years and Saunders, of Wrotham Road, Meopham, was sentenced to 21 months youth custody. Seven months spent in custody will count towards their sentences.