AN investigation has been started at Erlestoke Prison, near Devizes, after the suspected suicide of an inmate on Wednesday afternoon.

The governor of the category C male prison, Steve Hodson, has said he is unable to comment other than to confirm that a death had occurred in custody.

A police spokesman also confirmed that officers attended, but said they were not treating the death as suspicious.

A Prison Service spokesperson said: "A HMP Erlestoke prisoner was found in his cell at 11.30am on May 13. Staff tried to resuscitate him but he was pronounced dead at 12.20pm.

"As with all deaths in custody there will be in investigation by the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman."

The PPO carry out independent investigations into deaths of prisoners, due to any cause, including any apparent suicides and natural causes.

A PPO spokesperson said: "We are sorry to be informed of the death and extend our sympathies to the man’s family and friends, whom we will involve in our investigation if they wish, and try to answer any questions they may have.

"Our independent investigation will aim to identify the full circumstances of the death and whether there were any failings in the inmate’s care.

"Where possible we will identify lessons to be learned and make recommendations to the Prison Service to help prevent similar deaths in future. We also share any findings with the Coroner to assist with his inquiries."

On the same afternoon South Western Ambulance was also called to the prison at 12.30pm to a different inmate having a fit. The man was then taken to Salisbury Hospital for further treatment.