ONE of the most respected figures in the prison service has died at the age of 70.

Paul Whitehouse, who did much during his 25-year career to rehabilitate criminals, was a governor of Deerbolt Young Offenders Institution, at Barnard Castle, County Durham.

He was governor for ten years until his retirement in 1992. Before that, he was at jails in Leeds, Aylesbury and Wakefield, and at a staff college.

He was awarded an OBE on his retirement for outstanding contributions to the prison service.

In retirement, he lived with his wife, Nancy, in Hurworth, near Darlington, and carried out voluntary work to steer young people away from crime.

He helped the probation service in Durham and Teesside, and also supported the Prince's Trust.

A former colleague said: "While working with offenders, Paul always put an emphasis on education and training, so they would have more chance of getting a worthwhile job after their release.

"He was always delighted when he heard of an ex-inmate getting into a good career and becoming a respected citizen."

Mr Whitehouse, who leaves a wife, son and daughter, was keen on rugby and did much to encourage young players in Darlington. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, at 10.15am, at St Peter's Church, Croft.