CHILDREN from a Burnley school had a brush with the law - but their parents and teachers were thrilled.

The 16 Year Six pupils from St Joseph's Convent School, Park Hill, had their day in court, as part of Lancashire's first ever Inside Justice Week, designed to give the public a better understanding of the Criminal Justice System

The group, aged between 10 and 11, visited Burnley Magistrates Court to perform a play about villain Andrea Pincher, who pleaded guilty to making off with a mountain bike.

All class members took part either as victim, clerk, ushers, solicitors, magistrates, defendant or court reporter.

The aim of the visit was to raise youngsters' awareness of the consequences of crime and the justice process and to develop their trust in criminal justice staff.

Sister Joan, head teacher at St Joseph's, said: "This is a marvellous activity that they really get involved in and enjoy- but they also grasp the serious reality of what happens when a crime is committed and the impact it has on peoples' lives."

Community Beat Officer Gill Storey added: "Evidence shows that by making children aware of the consequences of crime, they are less likely to embark on such activities."