Ian Huntley, the convicted murderer of two 10-year-old girls in Soham, is in critical condition on life support following an attack by a fellow prisoner at HMP Frankland. The 52-year-old sustained severe skull injuries in the incident and has been transferred to Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary for treatment.

Huntley was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2003 for the murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham, Cambridgeshire, in August 2002. He has been serving his sentence at the maximum-security prison in County Durham.

The attack occurred more than a week ago, according to reports, with Huntley requiring round-the-clock medical supervision. Three guards are reportedly stationed at his hospital bedside as he receives treatment for his injuries.

Huntley's mother is said to be at his bedside as he remains in the intensive care unit. Medical officials have not released official statements regarding his prognosis or the extent of his injuries.

The incident represents the latest in a series of attacks Huntley has faced during his imprisonment. He has previously been targeted by other inmates multiple times since beginning his sentence at various facilities within the prison system.