Man sues over failed jail suicide

A former prisoner who tried to kill himself by setting himself alight is suing the Home Office for compensation of up to £100,000.

Anthony Grimes is accusing the Home Office of negligence and suing for damages for his injuries, pain and suffering, according to a High Court writ.

Twenty people required medical treatment after the blaze at Wormwood Scrubs, a prison source said. Grimes allegedly suffered 60 per cent burns and had only a "small chance" of surviving.

Grimes, who is seeking unspecified damages of between £ 50,000 and £100,000, is blaming the Home Office for allowing his suicide bid to take place.