MEMBERS of a Probus club found out all about prison life when they were visited by a former officer.

The group from Epping listened to an account from Pauline Martindale, a retired prison officer who spent 23 years at various jails including Holloway women's jail.

Member Trevor Roberts said: “Prison was not necessarily the sombre place depicted in the media. She had witnessed a marriage ceremony in Holloway where the bride, in a wedding dress, was given away by the Governor.”

Nicknamed Hitler's Wife, Pauline was tough on discipline although always treated the inmates as people not prisoners.

The talk ended in a rather unusual way with Pauline singing to her audience a humorous song about a young lady who disposed of her family illegally.

The club's next meeting will be held on September 9 and there are a few spaces left for new members.

Anyone interested in joining should contact the secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.