Victoria Robinson was discovered hanged at HMP New Hall, near Wakefield, on Wednesday night. She had been awaiting trial on charges of threats to kill.

"Every death in custody is a tragedy and the Prison Service offers its sympathy to the family and friends of Miss Robinson," a spokeswoman said.

Miss Robinson was the fourth woman to die at the jail in the last 12 months.

An investigation will now be launched by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman Stephen Shaw.

"Staff immediately attempted resuscitation and the emergency services were summoned," the spokeswoman added.

"Paramedics arrived but treatment was stopped and she was pronounced dead."

West Yorkshire Police, the coroner and Miss Robinson's family have all been informed.