I write in response to your article "Governor of open prison responds to MP's attack" (The Argus, April 6). A friend of mind was in Ford open prison for the last few years of his prison sentence.

The inmates called the place "Butlins holiday camp". They were able to leave the site, alcohol and drugs could be obtained and there was very little discipline.

He said it was the best two years he had ever had and it cost us taxpayers £350 a week to keep him there.

If open prisons are so relaxed and carefree, instead of sending people to such places would it not be better for them to live at home and undertake daily community service, seven days a week?

When we asked my friend, on his release, if he was pleased to be back home, he said the one thing he missed about Ford was the first-class cooking. His wife was never a good cook.

To me it seems a waste of money having open prisons.

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