Jail hunger strike protest ends

The protest over banning smoking at the jail lasted for 10 days

A Manx prisoner who went on hunger strike in protest over a smoking ban at the island's jail has ended his action.

The inmate was one of a number of prisoners who took part in the dispute by refusing prison meals.

He was the final prisoner to end the protest, which lasted for 10 days. During the action inmates were allowed to buy food from the prison shop.

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) said at no time did any inmates give cause for concern over their health.

The blanket ban on smoking was enforced across the jail's grounds because the DHA said allowing smoking just in the external yards would be difficult to police.

It said inmates would have to be issued with tobacco going out, then searched on their return to prevent tobacco being smuggled inside.

A DHA spokesman said: "The one remaining prisoner at Victoria Road jail who was continuing to refuse his meals ended his protest on Saturday.

"Members of the prison healthcare team are continuing to monitor all those who have been involved in the protest at any stage."

Victoria Prison in Douglas is due to close next month and inmates will be moved to a new purpose-built £41m prison in Jurby.