AN investigation has been launched into the death of an alleged rapist at a North-East prison.

Walter Smith was found hanged in his cell at Holme House Prison, Stockton, at the weekend.

He had been on remand, charged with rape, sexual assault, affray, making threats to kill, common assault and two traffic offences.

Mr Smith, 57, who lived in a caravan at West Chilton Farm, Chilton, County Dur-ham, arrived at the prison on February 7 on remand from Sedgefield Magistrates. He had been arrested the day before.

The offences with which he was charged went back more than 20 years. Mr Smith was found hanged in his cell at 7.50pm.

A Prison Service spokeswoman said there would be a full inquiry. She said: "The police, coroner and next-of-kin have been informed.

"There will be an investigation by the prison and Probation Ombudsman.

"Every death in custody is a tragedy and the Prison Service offers its sympathies to the family and friends of Walter Smith."

A police spokeswoman said officers were investigating the circumstances of the death.