THREE men have received jail sentences for their part in an attempted prison break.

Judge John Walford conceded the sentences on William Downes, Ifzal Zafar - both convicted robbers - and Kevin Bennett were somewhat “artificial” since the trio were already serving indeterminate prison terms.

But nonetheless he said there had to be custodial sentences, adding: “Escaping from lawful custody is viewed seriously by the courts.”

Michael Bosomworth, prosecuting at Teesside Crown Court, said police were involved in a full-scale search of the perimeter around HMP Kirklevington Grange, in Yarm, near Stockton, after a prisoner got onto a roof through a window.

He said three other prisoners, who also clambered through a window, escaped into the prison grounds during the incident on May 21 last year.

Zafar, 28, originally from Bradford, was later found hiding under a portable building which doubled as a dental surgery for inmates, while Downes, previously of Yarm Road, Stockton, was tackled to the ground as he ran towards the perimeter fence.

Bennett, 25, formerly of Melton Avenue, Newcastle, and another serving prisoner, Dylan Conroy, were recaptured after being found in bushes.

Mr Bosomworth said: “As a result of this incident measures have been taken to make it more secure."

Christopher Morrison, for 31-year-old Downes, said he had seriously jeopardised any chance of parole.

Warren Ridley, for Zafar, said he had a “history of being in the wrong place at the wrong time”.

Lorraine Mustard, for Bennett, who is in jail for aggravated burglary, said he had been two days away from being granted day release before the incident.

Zafar and Downes, who had denied attempted escape, each received nine month jail sentences, while Bennett was given a nominal seven day prison term after pleading guilty to the same charge.

Meanwhile, Conroy, of Holme House Prison, Stockton, also admitted attempted escape. He had previously been sentenced to seven days.