1000 of prison officers to stage walk-out over 'unprecedented levels of violence'

1000 of prison officers are predictable to walk out today in a protest over "unprecedented levels of violence", a union says.

The Prison Officers Association said it was demanding that the government get better safety and reduce aggression and overcrowding.

It comes after the chief inspector of prisons warned about the potential for a "complete breakdown" in order and regulation at HMP Bedford.

Inmates have efficiently taken control at the violent, overcrowded and vermin-infested jail, the watchdog said.

A POA presenter said: "The unprecedented levels of violence, and breakdown of this government and employer to provide secure prisons has been headline news for some considerable time.

"The increase in violence against employees in prisons is laid firmly at the feet of government and Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, who have overseen the demise of the prison service over the last 8 years."

The demonstrations across England and Wales started at 7am.

"We suppose every POA member to be stood outside each establishment, public or private, in England and Wales," a POA spokesman told Sky News.

The spokesman said he expected at least 5,000 prison officers to take part in the protests.