An inmate has died while on remand in prison on burglary charges, the Home Office said today.

Parema Rathnam Poonan was on remand in HMP Holme House in Stockton on Tees when he was found on Sunday morning.

The 33-year-old was found in his cell at 5.40am and his death was confirmed by a doctor around an hour later despite attempts to resuscitate him.

It is understood a ligature was used in his death and he was not on suicide watch.

He had arrived at the prison on November 3 after appearing at Leeds Crown Court on October 6 over charges of harassment, obstructing a police constable and two counts of burglary.

A Home Office spokesman said: ''Staff immediately attempted to resuscitate him and an ambulance was called. However, his death was confirmed by a doctor at 6.35am.

''Every death in custody is a tragedy and our sympathies are with the family and friends of Mr Poonan at this time.

''The police, coroner and next of kin have been informed.

''As with all deaths in custody the prisons and probation ombudsman will conduct an investigation.''