A prison has sparked controversy after hosting an LGBT-themed sports day for inmates that included entertainment from a drag performer.
The event took place at HMP Moorland near Doncaster, where coloured decorations reflecting the LGBT flag were displayed outside the segregation unit as part of the day.
The Category C prison, which holds more than 1,000 inmates, is understood to have organised the event to recognise diversity among prisoners.
According to reports, both LGBT inmates and prisoners convicted of sex offences were among those invited to take part.
HMP Moorland has one of the highest proportions of sex offenders in the prison estate, with around half of its inmates serving sentences for sexual offences.
It is understood a drag artist was invited to entertain those attending, although one witness claimed the performer spent much of the event standing on the sidelines.
The Daily Telegraph reported that prison sources also alleged that many members of staff had not been informed the sports day was taking place, prompting suggestions the event had been kept relatively low profile.
The revelations have fuelled criticism from campaigners and politicians, who argued the event risks damaging public confidence in the prison system at a time when overcrowding has led to the early release of thousands of offenders.
Former prison governor Ian Acheson questioned the decision to hold the event.
“I simply can’t imagine what possessed prison bosses to put on such an event,” he said.
“This prison holds people convicted of very serious sexual crimes against men, women and children.”
He also claimed senior officials had attempted to keep the event from staff and criticised the decision to invite a drag performer.
“The question is what did people at HQ level know about this and did they sanction it?” he said.
“This is a national law enforcement agency that has completely lost its way.”
Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy also criticised the event, saying victims would be “outraged” that prisons were hosting special sports days involving sex offenders.
He added: “Whoever thought it was appropriate to book a drag artist to entertain them should be sacked.
“We will end this waste and ensure our prisons are focused on punishment, deterrence and rehabilitation.”