Mr Clarke said that as staff opened the cell door, the prisoner surged forward, grabbed glass from a broken TV set outside the cell and attacked the officers with it.

BBC: Winson Green Prison: Four officers 'glassed' by inmate

He was found hanging from a ligature in his single cell by staff at 0550 BST.

BBC: Prisoner found hanged in cell

In 2003, Andrews was taken to intensive care after prison staff found her unconscious in her cell.

BBC: Anger at ex-royal aide's escape

Weaver spoke on CNN a few moments later from a cell phone, reassuring viewers and CNN staff that all was well.

CNN: crew released by Chinese

Dr Thomas said sickle cell has suffered from a low profile and poor understanding among clinical staff.

BBC: Sickle cell hospital admissions cut