A paedophile whose partner is accused of murdering their two children in a Spanish hotel has been found dead in prison.

Martin Smith, 46, was found dead on Monday evening at HMP Manchester, formerly Strangeways Prison.

A Prison Service spokesman said: “Prisoner Martin Smith was found hanging by staff at HMP Manchester at approximately 6.30pm on Monday January 23 2012.

“Staff intervened but he was pronounced dead at the prison at approximately 7pm.

“As with all deaths in custody, the independent prisons and probation ombudsman will undertake an investigation.”