'Bogus warder' security probe at Huntley's prison

The British Prison Service launched an investigation today into how an undercover journalist got a job as a warder at the top security jail where Soham murders suspect Ian Huntley is being held.

Reporter David McGee claims he was able to photograph Huntley in his cell and twice guarded him during his stint at the prison which began in April.

A separate inquiry is already underway at Woodhill prison in Buckinghamshire after Huntley was taken ill with a drugs overdose.

McGee says prison authorities allegedly failed to check his false address or bogus job reference before offering him a job.

He said he “simply called up” the prison and asked for a job.

“Within 13 weeks of starting training, and while I was still a rookie warder, I was the sole guard minding Huntley,” he wrote.

A Prison Service spokesman said the alleged breach of security had sparked a top level inquiry.

“We are very concerned about the allegations in a Sunday newspaper that a reporter was employed at HMP Woodhill,” he said.

“The deputy Director General has commenced an investigation which will be conducted by a senior manager from the prison service and will report to ministers as soon as possible.”