A man who threatened worshippers at a mosque hours after soldier Lee Rigby was killed has been jailed.

Geoffrey Ryan brandished two knives and shouted "I will kill you" at a member of the public outside the al-Falah Islamic Centre in Braintree, Essex, at 7.15pm on 22 May.

The 44-year-old, of Braintree, was sentenced to nine months in prison at Chelmsford crown court on Monday after admitting one count of affray and two of possessing an offensive weapon, the court confirmed on Wednesday.

Detective Constable Andy Young, from Essex police, said: "The incident caused unnecessary fear, not only for the people who witnessed it, but also local residents at a time when emotions were already running high due to the death of Drummer Lee Rigby in London.

"Ryan's imprisonment should serve as a warning to others who intend to cause fear and unrest in the community for their own agendas, whether personal or not.

"I would like to thank the members of the al-Falah prayer centre for their support during the investigation and for their continued efforts in which they have hosted local events intended to increase understanding and tolerance within a multicultural community."