Drug-fuelled violence at a prison continues to be of "major concern" despite huge improvements, according to a new report.

Staff at HMP Swaleside, one of three jails on Sheppey, also need to do more work prepare prisoners for release, said the annual report of its Independent Monitoring Board.

However, it added "good progress" has been made to prevent many drugs, tobacco and phones being smuggled into the jail, which was the scene of a riot in December last year.

This is thanks to a new dedicated search team, the illegal items continues continue to slip through the net.

The report notes that:

• Attacks between prisoners and prisoners on staff are often fuelled by drugs or other illegal activities;

• More work is needed to prepare prisoners for release;

• There is inadequate provision to provide prisoners nearing the end of their long sentences with resettlement advice;

• Showers are unacceptable and need urgent work.

The board, however, reported a number of improvements.

Chairman Barry Page said: "Staff at HMP Swaleside have put a great deal of effort into improving the regime and appearance of the prison.

"Now that full staffing has been achieved, the Board hopes that additional training for more new staff will be prioritised to ensure improvements continue to be made.

"We remain concerned that drugs, phones and weapons entering the prison are helping to fuel violence.

"There also remains insufficient provision for the rehabilitation of prisoners.

"There is a lack of meaningful work opportunities and limited spaces in classes and workshops.

"The board fears that prisoners will continue to be inadequately prepared for release unless more opportunities are made available."

The full report is published at www.imb.org.uk/reports

• IMB Swaleside needs volunteers to join it. To apply, visit www.imb.org.uk/join-now and search for Swaleside.