A LEYLAND magistrate is being forced to retire from the bench against his will because he is too old!

Brian Pilkington has to step down because he turns 70 next week -- the compulsory retirement age.

But the former estate agent, who established Pilkingtons Estate Agents, Hough Lane, Leyland, believes he still has what it takes to dole out the law.

Although legal eagles have put Brian on a reserve list, the former Wellfield High School pupil believes he will never be called as a magistrate again.

Brian, a grandfather-of-two, said: "I do feel that with my experience I still have a lot to offer. I've been doing this half my life.

"I wouldn't say that being a magistrate has been enjoyable but it has been very interesting. The law is the law and I can't change it, but I'm of sound mind."

And now charity bosses at Age Concern are calling for the law to be changed to allow people to work beyond the legal age limit.

Linda Chivers, chief executive at Preston and South Ribble branch of the charity, said that people's life expectancy is longer and they should not be forced to retire. She said: "Mr Pilkington is clearly making a large contribution to his local community, upholding justice as a volunteer."

Throughout his 35 years as a South Ribble magistrate, Brian has sat on the bench at Preston Crown Court and at the magistrates' courts in Leyland and Chorley.

He has laid down the law in family court proceedings in Ormskirk and has helped decide which venues can serve alcohol on their premises.

Mr Pilkington said: "One of the highlights was a trip to London to see the Royal Courts of Justice. We were invited for lunch at the Wigg and Penn club over the road. It survived the great fire of London and it was beautiful."

John Robinson, director of legal services, said: "He has specialised in dealing with family disputes and addressing the needs of children who are at risk.

"His physical fitness belies his age and illustrates the arbitrary nature of the compulsory retirement age for magistrates."