A government contractor, Serco, has been called "petty and vindictive" for removing colourful artworks meant to improve conditions in court custody cells. The murals were created by prisoners at HMP Doncaster and included motivational quotes like one from Madonna: “No matter who you are, no matter where you come from, you can always change and become a better version of yourself.” These bright artworks aimed to cheer up often bleak, underground court cells. The government's Prisoner Escort and Custody Services had commissioned them. While GEOAmey installed the artworks, Serco-managed courts ordered their removal shortly after. This decision appears in the annual report from the Lay Observers, who monitor court custody conditions in England and Wales. Their report is based on 759 visits, covering nearly 2,000 hours. The report also reveals serious issues in the court custody system. For example, at Swindon magistrates court, a person was held for 10 hours in transport and custody for just a nine-minute hearing. Disabled detainees face long journeys, and safety concerns arise as women are transported alongside men charged with sexual or domestic violence in 44% of monitored cases. Children are sometimes transported with adults. Detainees face harsh treatment. One man with only one tooth was denied special food and went hungry. Court staff have been reported to "bark" questions, while a poster warns staff of fines for slow detainee processing. David Whalley, national chair of Lay Observers, said: "Safeguarding often vulnerable people in court custody must move beyond aspiration and become embedded in everyday practice." Andrew Neilson of the Howard League for Penal Reform said the removals were "petty and vindictive," as the art gave detainees hope amid tough conditions. Mark Day from the Prison Reform Trust urged Serco to explain the decision, stressing that even small efforts to improve custody environments can reduce risks of self-harm. A Serco spokesperson said the company is "committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment" and is working with HM Prison and Probation Service to improve court custody suites. The Ministry of Justice added that it works with suppliers to ensure safe custody environments, including separating prisoners in transport and removing unsafe cells from use.