AN independent report into a North East prison has given it a clean bill of health but raised concerns about any further staffing reductions.

The Independent Monitoring Board has published its annual report into the conditions in HMP Holme House as well as the welfare of inmates at the Stockton prison.

Chairwoman Linda Broadhead, who has been on the board for eight years, praised the efforts of staff but pointed out that any further reduction in officer numbers could leave the remaining staff stretched to the limit.

The report said 'the lack of available resources has impacted on all aspects of prison life including the introduction of a curtailed weekend regime latterly. The Board has been particularly concerned about night staffing which has been cut to the bone'.

On a more positive note, the report adds: "Despite all of the above staff and prisoner relationships have remained good on the whole. Indeed, the MPQL/SQL rated this aspect of prison life above average in comparison with like establishments.

"The Board would acknowledge the willingness of the majority of staff to make things happen, an ability to change tasks quickly and at short notice and their professionalism, dedication and general good humour in another very difficult year.

"The Governor, the management team, staff and partner organisations have all continued to pull together to try to minimise the effects of change on prisoners and prison life and to maintain a safe, secure and stable environment."

The report have been sent to the Ministry of Justice, which oversees the running of prisons around the UK.

Mrs Broadhead said: "Despite the reduction of staffing numbers, it is still a well run and well managed prison. We have raised the question with the Ministry about the prospect of further cuts because we believe that could have a detrimental impact on the running of the prison."

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: "The dedicated and hardworking staff at HMP Holme House provide a high standard of professional care for prisoners.

"As the report notes, the prison is a well-run establishment which has the safety, security and well-being of offenders at heart.

"We keep staffing levels under review and have responded to recent pressures through an effective recruitment campaign, which has enabled us to meet our target of 1,700 new prison officers by March 2015."