POLICE are investigating the death of a prisoner in his cell at Les Nicolles. The body of Nicholas Upson, 26, was found on Saturday night.

Police have started a full investigation into the circumstances of his death, with assistance from the prison.

‘It’s a matter being investigated the police with the cooperation of the prison authorities,’ said Home minister Mike Torode yesterday.

A post-mortem examination could be carried out today.

Family liaison officers have been detailed to support Mr Upson’s family.

Mr Upson, a local man, was believed to be in prison on remand, awaiting a Royal Court trial for his alleged involvement in the importation of a commercial quantity of cannabis.

He had appeared in the Magistrate’s Court twice last December and a committal hearing was then scheduled for January.

It is understood that he was unhappy with conditions at the prison.

He had contacted Guernsey Press reporters earlier this year to complain about the situation.

Marilyn Vidamour, whose son Philip Webb died in prison in Winchester following a transfer from Guernsey in July 1998, was dismayed by the news.

‘After my experiences I’d have hoped they would have made sure that this wouldn’t happen again,’ she said. ‘There’s something very wrong there.

‘I hope it’s investigated and not just by their own people. This shouldn’t be swept under the carpet. I’m very angry that it has happened again.’

She offered her condolences to Mr Upson’s family.

The States rejected a full independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Mr Webb’s death in February 2000.