Inmates ‘use plastic spoons’ to break out of crumbling cells

 About 150 prisoners will have to be transferred and an entire jail wing shut after inmates broke out of crumbling cells using plastic spoons to unpick the mortar around the doors, The Daily Telegraph has been told.

Nineteen prisoners at HMP Winchester used furniture to smash down loosened walls before running amok in their wing, where only one officer was on duty. Anti-riot officers were called in and regained control.

Four prisoners were taken to hospital after what the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) called the first cell breakout of its kind. Police are investigating Tuesday night’s incident, and the 19 prisoners will face disciplinary hearings.

An anti-riot squad was last night called to the prison for a second time after prisoners attempted a cell breakout in what was thought to be a copycat tactic.

Mark Fairhurst, POA chairman, has previously demanded the closure of the wing for renovation. He said: “This is a serious incident … it raises serious questions over the safety of staff.”