DURHAM Prison governor Mike Newell, who struggled to deal with high levels of overcrowding, has taken early retirement.

It is understood he was unhappy at being stripped of the resources to fulfil his dual role as governor and president of the Prison Governors' Association.

Sources within the prison service said administration staff had been employed to help him to carry out both tasks - but these have been removed by Prison Service officials.

Commenting on his retirement, Prison Reform Trust director Juliet Lyon said: "Over the years Mike Newell has been dealing with massive overcrowding at Durham.

"In addition to this he has also overseen the removal of female prisoners from Durham to other establishments.

"We have valued his views, not only as governor of Durham Prison, but also in his role with the Prison Governors' Association.

"He has voiced concerns about overcrowding and other issues shared with many governors across the system.

"He will be speaking to our staff and directors in London on Thursday about issues relating to the association."

Prison Governors' Association general secretary Charles Bushell said: "Mike Newell has taken early retirement from the Prison Service with effect from March 31.

"He will be sorely missed by his colleagues and by the service. We certainly wish him well in any future calling which he may contemplate."

The Prison Service has confirmed Mr Newell's retirement, but said it was unable to comment on claims of a withdrawal of resources.