Magistrates tell pupils "the law is your friend" - May 2011

Trafford magistrates with more than 50 years experience in meting out local justice told boys at Altrincham Preparatory School that the Law was their friend.

Representing the Magistrates' Association, the four long serving local arbiters, explained the citizen's rights and responsibilities. Richard Monkhouse, who has 14 years service said: "It's all about making local people, especially the younger generation, more aware of the criminal justice system and to explain in a light-hearted manner the consequences of criminal behaviour. "

Kathy Westwood, who has 23 year's service, added: "We don't want to be scaremongers, but it is important that children know about the due process of the law. "

Mrs Westwood added: "Many of the boys were surprised to learn that crime is not increasing but has actually decreased dramatically. Compared to five years ago, Trafford is dealing with around 40% to 50% fewer cases. The police are handling the less serious incidents on the spot and there is more restorative justice, but there has also been a welcomed reduction in crime."

Mr Monkhouse added: "We typically get asked about the most gruesome crimes and the longest sentences, but those cases are dealt with in the crown court, while the magistrates court deals with 95% of criminal behaviour, much of which is less serious. "

Mrs Westwood also told the boys that anyone could apply to be a magistrate so long as they were not a serving police officer or had a criminal record. "You really should be fair-minded, have a knowledge of your local community and be very reliable" she added.

APS Headmaster Andrew Potts said: "APS is delighted to welcome Trafford Magistrates. They are hard-working and much respected local volunteers who give so much to their local community and set a wonderful example to the next generation."

The other magistrates to attend were Chris Hall and Tony Bresley.
Pictured with Kathy Westwood are Abbias, Matthew, Harvey and Cameron.