Apparently doomed Dartmoor prison has been given a new lease of life after the Government dropped plans to close it in 2023.

MPs and councillors have battled against the proposed closure, which would have saved millions of pounds, for years.

Today, the Prison Service confirmed that the prison would remain open following new negotiations over a lease with landlords the Duchy of Cornwall.

A spokeswoman said: ’An initial agreement has been reached with the Duchy of Cornwall to keep HMP Dartmoor open beyond 2023 – protecting jobs and 640 prison places that keep the public safe.’

The news delighted Mark Fairhurst, chairman of the Prison Officers Association (POA), who said in a tweet: ’It gives me great pleasure to announce that the POA union campaign to keep HMP Dartmoor open has been successful.

’HMPPS (prison service) has now agreed Dartmoor will remain operational as a prison beyond the end of 2023. That is excellent news for staff. Great Christmas present for all.’