Overcrowding remains a problem at Inverness Prison

The unit, designed for 108 inmates, held 150 when it was examined by the Chief Inspector of Prisons Andrew McLellan in September.

Inmates in one of two segregation cells were still sleeping on mattresses on concrete plinths, rather than beds.

The prison was described by inspectors in December last year as "regularly the most overcrowded" in the country.

The watchdog, who praised the jail's "real strengths", said overcrowding had eased in the past year and the condition of toilets had improved.

However, the inspection team found new WCs in the separate cells were unscreened.

Inverness prison has been overcrowded for years Andrew McLellan Chief Inspector of Prisons

The jail was commended for its work with vulnerable prisoners, as well as improvements in treating inmates with addictions and the introduction of some sentence management for long-term prisoners.

Training is being provided to enable two staff members to act as personal officers for long-term prisoners.

The jail, which had improved its sports facilities, was found to be safe and there had been no escapes in the past year.

Dr McLellan said: "Inverness Prison has been overcrowded for years.

"Last year's report pointed out that the prison was contracted for 48% overcrowding.

"It is good that this contract number has been reduced, but 150 prisoners is still a very large number in a prison designed to hold 108."