Police were called to Chelmsford Prison after a man was found dead inside.

Ashley Austin, 36, an inmate at the prison, was found dead in the early hours of Monday morning.

A Prison Service spokesman said: “HMP Chelmsford prisoner Ashley Austin (DOB 27/05/1981) died in custody on Monday.

“As with all deaths in custody there will be an independent investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: "We were contacted shortly after 6.20am on Monday, October 16, with reports of the death of a man at Chelmsford Prison.

"The man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"His death is currently being treated as unexplained, not suspicious.

"A file is being prepared for HM Coroner."