Christopher Stokes found hanged in his cell at Maghaberry Prison

The Prison Service described Mr Stokes death as a tragedy

A prisoner has been found hanged in his cell at Maghaberry prison in County Antrim.

Christopher Stokes, 37, was found in a collapsed state on Monday.

Staff tried to revive him but he was pronounced dead just before midnight. A ligature was recovered from his cell.

The PSNI, coroner and Prisoner Ombudsman have been notified and investigations are ongoing. His family have been informed.

Prison Service acting director general Max Murray said: "On behalf of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, I would like to extend my sympathy to the family. This is a tragedy and my thoughts are with them at this difficult time."

The 37-year-old was given a 20-year sentence in 2011 for his part in the murder of John Mongan in west Belfast in 2008.