A PRISON'S high-risk gamble of scrapping segregated wings for vulnerable inmates is today heralded as a success in an official report.

Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons, Sir David Ramsbotham, hails Durham Jail's initiative as the "chief jewel in its crown".

Prison officials in Durham claim the controversial move has been vindicated with no major increase in violence between inmates.

Traditionally vulnerable prisoners, including many sex offenders, seek protection from feared retribution from other inmates by asking to be placed in segregated units.

But Durham Jail's previous governor, Niall Clifford, aware of the growing numbers of inmates asking for protection, took the bold decision two years ago to integrate vulnerable prisoners on to general wings.

His successor as governor, Mike Newell, has maintained the policy, despite misgivings in some sections of the prison service.

Sir David, who visited Durham in February for the prison's first full inspection since 1995, described it as one of several examples of "good practice" which he believes should be introduced throughout the prison estate.

"Its impact on the atmosphere in the prison is remarkable and, while making considerable demands on them, its results are beneficial to staff in its day-to-day running.

"I could not commend their achievement more, and hope others will have the courage to follow suit, knowing it can be done," said Sir David.

Deputy governor Dave Thompson said: "We took a bit of flak over it and I got used to dealing with solicitors' letters, but what we did was to manage the staff to ensure they felt confident implementing it."