THE Cheshire Advisory Committee is on the hunt for new magistrates to serve in its courts, with the latest cohort having been sworn in earlier this month.

The new recruits have completed their training and will start life as a magistrate on the Cheshire Bench, based in Crewe, in the New Year.

With the support of an experienced mentor, they will be part of the decision-making process of dispensing justice in court.

This vital voluntary role has been the cornerstone of the British judicial system for centuries, and sees people judged by their equals.

Sitting in benches of three including one trained chairman, magistrates deal with more than 95 per cent of all criminal cases, as well as family and youth cases.

The minimum sitting requirement equates to 13 days a year, and is undertaken alongside other work, home and voluntary commitments.

Andrew Antoniou, a new recruit from Nantwich, said: “I enjoy the diversity of work and ability to see and help a wide range of cultures within my community.”

Anne Hart from Crewe was pleased to be chosen saying “I am looking forward to doing public service and the ability to put the skills I have acquired in my work to good use in the court.”

The Cheshire Advisory Committee will be recruiting early in 2017.No formal qualifications or legal training is needed to apply, as training is given.

The committee is looking for applicants from all walks of life, in particular from those aged 18 to 50.

For more information and to apply, visit gov.uk/become-magistrate.