WYCOMBE Magistrates Court invited people to come and see for themselves just how the courtroom works yesterday.

Pre-booked visitors came to watch proceedings from the public seating area, while Magistrates themselves were on hand to explain more about the cases, and give an overview of how the system.

The court, in Eastern Street, had previously staged an open day in November, while another is already being planned.

Barbara Simpson, bench chairman, explained that although the courts were open to the public at any time, these sessions were designed to give a better understanding of how they worked.

She said: "Some people who came last time are recommending it to their friends. We have had a schoolboy doing law for GCSE, and people interested in becoming magistrates, and other people who are just interested and have never been in a magistrates court before.

"It's all to do with informing the public of the work of the magistrates - it's not a recruiting drive, but they will have a bit of background for making their application, if they want to."

She added that the court had gotten strong feedback after the last open day, and a third session is being planned, for Monday, April 7.

There are around 20 spaces available, and places must be reserved by emailing magswycombe@btinternet.com, or by calling 01494 651035.