We will be cooperating fully with all relevant authorities

Spokeswoman, Parc Prison

He was found hanging from a bed just after 1630GMT on Wednesday.

A prison spokeswoman said: "Despite prompt action from our staff, the man was pronounced dead just before 5pm.

"Trained medical staff had made every effort to save the man's life and paramedics were quickly on the scene.

She added: "The prison service, police and coroner have been informed and an independent investigation into the incident will be carried out in line with Home Office procedures.

Privately run

"We will be co-operating fully with all relevant authorities."

An inquest is due to be held into Mr Smith's death and Ms Williams said no further information would be released before then.

Parc Prison is a private institution run by Securicor Custodial Services.

In March, Parc Prison was praised by the then Chief Inspector of Prisons, Sir David Ramsbotham, for improving standards at the jail.

Wales's first privately run prison has been beset with problems since it opened in 1997, including claims that racist prisoners had virtually taken over one wing.