OPINIONS have been divided after it was revealed what inmates at Haverigg Prison will tuck into on Christmas Day.

Turkey and pigs in blankets will be on offer to inmates at Cumbria’s only prison along with a variety of festive delights, according to menus obtained under freedom of information laws.

Other options on the day will include salmon, spinach and cream cheese en croute.

Additional options for Christmas dinner will include chicken korma curry or a vegan schnitzel.

Everything will be served with roast and parsley potatoes, Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, cabbage, parsnips and gravy.

The inmates will finish off with Christmas pudding and brandy sauce.

Some disagreed with the food on offer.

Sarah Bell said: “Meanwhile, lots of law abiding, hardworking citizens of the UK can't afford to put their heating on or cook a Christmas dinner....”

Nikki Petrie said: “While our pensioners are afraid to heat their homes or even eat, never mind eat a luxury Christmas dinner with so many choices.”

Others thought the inmates are just as entitled to a Christmas dinner as anyone else.

Dave Short said: “Who cares? I don’t!”

Gill Jepson said: “Nice to see the values of Christianity during this Christian festival are thriving.”

Leanne Harrison said: “Of course they'll be having a great Christmas dinner. They grow (yes, the 'prisoners') EVERYTHING on site apart from the meat and a few trimmings so why should we be bitter.

“Maybe learning to reap their rewards might make them even better people. Who knows.”

Lucy Simmons said: “Prisoners in there also do a lot of good work for the community. They make benches and plant vegetables etc.”

Some readers pointed out ways the prison and inmates could help the community over Christmas.

Alison Haycocks said: “Just a thought. Would it be possible for the prisoners to support anyone making Christmas dinners for vulnerable and less fortunate in the community.

“I know I've spoken to a prisoner in the shop who seemed very knowledgeable of cooking. They grow veg, maybe a way to supply some of their produce show they can do some good with skills they've learnt from being inside.”

Sue Randall said: “I think they should deliver meals to vulnerable and lonely people in the area too whilst they are cooking for criminals.”

READ THE FULL STORY: What inmates at Cumbria's prison will eat on Christmas Day