MANY people have seen the inside of a court room on their television and cinema screens.

But, other than the criminal fraternity, how many have actually paid a visit visit them?

Well, if you'd like to get a real close up, look you'll find an invitation form Chorley Magistrates Court simply arresting.

For the court is notching a first next month by staging an open day for the public.

Magistrate Jim Nelson, a deputy chairman of the bench at Chorley, said: "This is a first for Chorley and we would like to see anyoine whjio is fainlty interested to come along."

a retired economist, formerly withn the Central Lancashire Develpopment Coiroratin and then lancashire County Council, Mr Nelson, aged 68, a amagistrtate sicne1982, said court chiefs were anxious to make more pooplpe aware of how the court operates.

Visitors will be given a full tour, inlcuidng into the dock area, courtrooms and magistrates' retitiring rooms. And there will be a number of mock trials taking place during the day.

Local school s have been informed and there will be a prize quiz for the under 14s.

Many agencies will be involbved, such as Magistartes" Court Committee, Magistrates Assocaiton, police, Crown Prosecuition Service, defence solicitors, probation service, Victim Support and Youth Justice Team, al 0n hand to answer any quesiton you may have. The event will also be supported by the Law Society in Choroley.

It takes place on Saturday, October 7, between 10am and 1pm. Light refreshments will be served free of charge, with volunatry donations to Derian House Children's Hospice.