Paul Deacon, a former mental health nurse at Broadmoor Hospital, has shared harrowing memories of treating notorious criminals including Ronnie Kray and Peter Sutcliffe. Deacon worked at the high-security psychiatric hospital in Berkshire from 1987 to 1997, and his experiences feature in a new four-part documentary series.
Deacon, now 67 and a mental health lecturer, described how Ronnie Kray enjoyed a cult-like status, with visits from celebrities such as Barbara Windsor and Roger Daltrey. He recalled an incident where Spandau Ballet's Martin and Gary Kemp visited Kray while researching their 1990 film 'The Krays'. After ordering three shandies, the brothers were presented with a bill of over £200, as Kray had added extra charges for the interview.
Regarding Peter Sutcliffe, the Yorkshire Ripper, Deacon said he was 'less of a problem than others', but noted that other patients often tried to attack him for notoriety. Sutcliffe lost sight in his left eye after being stabbed with a pen by a fellow inmate in 1997. Deacon also recalled the violent behaviour of Charles Bronson, who would often strip naked and provoke other patients, creating a chaotic atmosphere.
Deacon witnessed several escapes during his tenure, including that of double-child rapist James Saunders, who scaled an 18-foot wall in 1991. He also suffered a vicious attack himself, which still gives him flashbacks. Despite the dangers, Deacon said the staff were trained to de-escalate situations and manage the most challenging patients.
