A SENIOR figure in magistrates' courts administration came before the bench, charged with possession of "a very offensive tie".

Bob Whitehouse was convicted on Wednesday by a magistrates' panel made up of primary school pupils from Peterlee, County Durham.

The junior JPs, from Yoden Primary, sentenced the chief executive of County Durham Magistrates' Courts to "100 hours' community service with Santa Claus".

He was selected as defendant for a mock trial conducted as part of the celebrations to mark the launch of a new witness support service in magistrates' courts in the county.

The event was staged at Durham Magistrates' Court.

Co-ordinators have been appointed to oversee the service, which offers a designated waiting area, plus re-assurance, advice and a helping hand for witnesses appearing in magistrates' court cases.

TV agony aunt Denise Robertson was guest of honour.

"I know of the wonderful work of the witness support scheme and I am sure it will have a spin-off with people who are 'too scared to tell'," she said. "If they realise they will be supported and encouraged, and realise society will stand by them, they may feel more willing to come forward."

Anyone considering volunteering is asked to ring organiser Trudi Ranson, on 0191-383 1289.