VOLUNTEERS are needed to help monitor conditions at a North-East women's prison.

New blood is needed on the Board of Visitors at Low Newton Prison, a former remand centre, at Brasside, on the outskirts of Durham City.

A number of vacancies need to be filled on Low Newton's Board of Visitors, the independent watchdog group which has access at any time to the institution.

Board members can visit all areas at Low Newton, including workshops, kitchens and accommodation, and must be satisfied they are kept in order, inmates are treated humanely and that staff run the prison correctly.

It involves a two to three day commitment each month, with members, who should live within 20 - 30 miles of the prison, also required to attend monthly board meetings.

Board chairman Audrey Vasey said: "Quite simply members are the eyes and ears, at the institution, of the Home Secretary and of the public."

Applications are invited from people in all walks of life, irrespective of gender, social and ethnic background, or age, providing they are at least 18 years old.

Anyone coming forward will undergo an interview and if successful will be appointed by the Home Secretary.

Further information is available from: The Clerk, Board of Visitors, HMP/YOI Newton, Brasside, Durham, DH1 5SD.