HMP Bronzefield prisoner segregated for more than five years

An inmate at a women's prison was held in segregation for more than five years, an inspection report has revealed.

The discovery was made during an unannounced visit to HMP Bronzefield near Ashford, Surrey, in April,

Nick Hardwick, the chief inspector of prisons, said it amounted to "cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment" and described the cell as "squalid".

The BBC has contacted the Ministry of Justice for a response.

Frances Crook, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, described conditions the woman was kept in as "appalling" and "unnecessary".