Bosses at a teenage jail in Rochester have hit back following national newspaper reports that young criminals housed there were treated to a Hawaiian party.

Chiefs say young inmates at the Rebound Medway Secure Training Centre, in Sir Evelyn Road, which is run by private security firm G4S group, were not handed exotic treats at the two-day event but were taking part in team building and improving social skills activities.

There are almost 80 young inmates aged 12 to 17 housed in the unit.

The weekend of activities was supervised by youth workers and partly organised by two of the inmates who have been working towards gaining their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

A G4S spokesman said: “We are required to provide regular activities for the young people at weekends, and these are usually led by youth workers.

“These activities are focused around team building, improving social skills, diversity, cultural awareness and education and help to build self esteem amongst the young people in our care.

The event itself was held over two days, with each living unit being entitled to a 35 minute session.

“At any one time, a maximum group of eight young people would be taking part.

“Those who have demonstrated poor behaviour are excluded from the activity”.