Students from 10 primary schools in the Feltham, Hounslow and Isleworth area were given the opportunity to put their teachers on trial in a special event organised by Feltham Magistrates' Court.

As part of the project the teachers were tried for being drunk and throwing missiles during a football match, with 30 students from each school in court watching the proceedings and meeting those involved in the process, some even acting as magistrates, prosecutors, defence lawyers and ushers.

The event, which took place last Wednesday, was part of the Inside Justice Week, a week designed to raise the awareness of who magistrates are and what their work involves. The day was also designed to show the consequences of crime to the students, who were later treated to the unpleasant experience of riding in a prison van.

Bench chairmen Don Ross said: "Magistrates are very keen to engage with youngsters to discourage them from getting into trouble and to realise the consequences of breaking the law for everyone concerned."

The day was a huge success and proved popular with the children and teachers alike. As the event was oversubscribed and many schools were unsuccessful in their applications to join the event, similar events are planned for the future.