NEW HALL women's prison now has a new play area, to make visits more pleasant for children.
Previously, the only distractions for youngsters at the Flockton prison had been a handful of toys and a TV.
The new conservatory area will be supervised by full-time staff.
The New Hall Kidz Play Facility was partly paid for by a £130,000 lottery grant and £20,000 from the prison service.
It is designed to be enjoyed by children aged up to 12.
Former governor Veronica Bird opened the conservatory.
She is seen (centre) with co-ordinators Sharon Gallagher (left) and Farhat Bashforth, who helped to set up the scheme.
"We decided we weren't providing a particularly nice facility for children," said New Hall governor Harry Atkinson.
"When they are visiting a person it's quite a daunting experience for someone so young.
"It is a nursery-type environment. The kids can do a drawing or painting for their mother," Mr Atkinson added.
Adults can now chat alone during family visits, knowing their children are being supervised.
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