HMP The Verne is calling for volunteers.

Representatives from the Portland prison, which houses male sex offenders, say members of the public are being sought to do what it describes as 'an unusual job'.

The role is unpaid, for two or three days per month, and involves 'monitoring day-to-day life' and making sure proper standards of care are maintained.

A spokesman said: "If you are looking for an interesting and challenging role, which may sometimes be outside your comfort zone, then this could be for you".

Following a refurbishment, the Category C prison can now hold up to 580 men, and is now recruiting more volunteers to join its Independent Monitoring Board, appointed by the prisons minister.

Late last year the former Victorian military barracks announced it would return to its role as a Category C prison after being used as an immigration removal centre by the Home Office for four years.

It is one of a handful of UK prisons dedicated exclusively to holding sex criminals, in response to an increase in the number of abusers.

It has been previously stated by the Ministry of Justice that evidence shows holding sex offenders together makes them more likely to engage in treatment programmes.

To find out more about the possibility of joining the board, telephone 01305 871966 or email imbrecruitment@justice.gsi.gov.uk and ask for an application form.