Ananova:

Ronnie Barker has recorded a series of messages aimed at helping prisoners settle into life behind bars.

Inmates at Pentonville Prison, North London, hear the former Porridge actor's words when they press a touch-screen information panel installed on every landing.

The machine, also ordered by other jails, gives details on the canteen, visiting hours, education schemes, lock-up times and the gym, reports The Sun.

As they touch the screen, Barker says in the tones of his character Norman Stanley Fletcher: "All right? You must be new round here. The name's Fletcher. Fletch for short.

"I've been asked to introduce this here information centre to you on account of the fact that I've had some experience of being an involuntary guest of Her Majesty. The first nights would have been easier if I'd had some idea what to expect - what prison life was like."

Barker, 74, said: "I'm happy to use Fletcher's knowledge of life inside to help a few of the boys and make them feel a little more comfortable with the system."

Acting Pentonville governor Steve Fradley said: "Many things may have changed since Fletch did time, but I'm sure prisoners will value his help."