FOR anyone interested in what our courts are like and wanting to learn more about what we do in them than would be possible by observing them in session, the Blackpool and Fylde Magistrates' Court on Chapel Street in Blackpool is holding an open day between 10am and 1pm on Saturday, September 18.

On that day members of the public may visit the court, view the courtrooms and cells; view exhibitions mounted by the Crown Prosecution Service, police, probation service, child protection committee, Law Society and the Courts.

They can witness a mock trial and maybe even join an experienced magistrate chairman on the bench to determine and deliver sentence.

Those taking part in the mock trial will play their usual roles they regularly practise in the courts.

There will be plenty of opportunity to speak with those responsible for mounting exhibitions, as well as 30 or so magistrates who will be on hand to guide visitors around the building and exhibitions. However, magistrates will not be able to discuss any sentences that have been passed in any court.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

There will be a competition for children and two prizes will be awarded.

I hope a large number of people will take advantage of an opportunity which will not arise in Blackpool again for at least two years.

Finally, I look forward to welcoming everyone to our courthouse on Saturday, September 18.

Jeffrey H Trembles JP

Chairman,

Blackpool and Fylde Petty Sessional Division.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.