11 rare pictures of HMP Manchester when it was Strangeways Prison during the riots of 1990

Strangeways Prison, as it was 30 years ago, was the site of one of the most infamous prison riots in British history.

They happened during April 1990 and began as a protest against poor conditions, overcrowding and harsh treatment of inmates.

It lasted 25 days making it the longest prison disturbance in the UK.

The riots caused major damage and led to significant reforms in the prison system. Authorities began to improve conditions and more rehabilitative approach was introduced. It is now called HMP Manchester. These news pictures recall the events as they unfolded.

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5. Strangeways Riots, 1990

Prisoners on a rooftop at Strangeways Prison (now HM Prison Manchester) after 1000 inmates rioted in protest at conditions in the jail, April 1990. The rooftop protest lasted from the 1st to the 25th April. (Photo by Tom Stoddart/Getty Images) | Getty Images

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6. Strangeways Riots, 1990

Strangeways Prison (now HM Prison Manchester) during a riot by the prisoners in protest at conditions in the jail, April 1990. The rooftop protest lasted from the 1st to the 25th April. (Photo by Tom Stoddart/Getty Images) | Getty Images

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7. Strangeways Riots, 1990

Prisoners on the rooftop of Strangeways Prison (now HM Prison Manchester) during a riot in protest at conditions in the jail, April 1990. The rooftop protest lasted from the 1st to the 25th April. (Photo by Tom Stoddart/Getty Images) | Getty Images