A Scottish prison which was condemned as "idle, unsafe and failing" has been visited by Justice Minister Jim Wallace.

Craiginches Prison, in Aberdeen, was heavily criticised last month by Clive Fairweather, the Chief Inspector of Prisons.

Mr Wallace - who described the report as "disturbing" - met the governor, inmates and staff on Friday.

I am very satisfied that the points we wanted to make were very well listened to

Audrey Mooney Prison governor

After spending more than at hour at the prison, Mr Wallace said progress was being made towards addressing the recommendations in Mr Fairweather's report.

However, he said: "This is a local prison and it reflects what is going on outside.

"We know that Grampian has serious drug issues and that has its effect within the prison."

Mr Wallace wants to see improvements to visitor and health facilities.

Accommodation is also a priority, although work on this area will not be rushed.

Drug abuse

The privatisation of the prison escort system next year will also release more staff for duties inside the jail.

Prison governor Audrey Mooney said: "I am very satisfied that the points we wanted to make were very well listened to, and I am sure they will be taken account of."

Mr Fairweather's report painted a picture of violence and drug abuse within the prison.

Jim Wallace: "Disturbing report"

He also identified what he called the lack of any meaningful regime.

The inspector's report said that five years ago it was a well run establishment with good staff and prisoner morale.

Mr Fairweather said the prison had "greatly deteriorated" due to overcrowding and a rise in the drugs culture in the north-east - resulting in a high level of drug misuse among newly admitted prisoners.

His overall assessment of the jail was rejected by the Scottish Prison Service, although it accepted most of his recommendations for improvements.

Staff at Craiginches said there have been major improvements since Mr Fairweather's visit, but Mr Wallace said he wanted to see the prison to decide for himself.

The prison, which was built in 1890, houses 215 prisoners in a jail whose capacity is 155.