The move is said to have caused disquiet at the women's jail, with one inmate threatening to self-harm to stay away from Winfield.

One of the rapist's two victims told the newspaper: "I feel like it mocks the people he offended against. It is a kick in the teeth for me and his other victim."

The victim visited her attacker in prison give years ago in an attempt to put the abuse behind her, and was surprised to see Winfield's changed appearance.