RESIDENTS are being urged to take a peek behind the scenes and find out exactly how the criminal justice system works.

The first ever Inside Justice Week provides a unique glimpse of how the judicial system operates on a day-to-day basis.

The West Mercia Criminal Justice Board, which has organised the event, hopes it will demonstrate how the agencies work together and the experiences individuals meet along the way.

On Saturday, a group of onlookers followed the journey of a victim of crime, a witness and a defendant as they passed through the system culminating in a mock trial at the first in a series of events held at the Conference Centre, University College Worcester, St John's.

Helen Allen, assistant chief officer, West Mercia Probation service, said everyone who went along on the day seemed to enjoy themselves.

"Around 80 people turned up and there was a real atmosphere," she said.

"Actors took part in a walk-through of a crime being committed to a mock trial. I hope the events improve satisfaction and confidence in the system."

Jim England, chief crown prosecutor of the West Mercia Criminal Justice Board, said the week would show how the agencies work together.

"I hope that this series of events helps to show how the criminal justice agencies work together and addresses the differing perceptions and experiences of the victims, witnesses and defendants," he said.

Chief Constable Paul West said the criminal justice system was vital in keeping communities safe.

"It's essential that the system serves everyone and, therefore, I'm particularly pleased that we have focused upon the issue of diversity as the theme for our events as part of Inside Justice Week," he said.

"I hope the events in West Mercia will prompt healthy debate and new ideas which will help us to continue to build public trust and confidence in the criminal justice system locally."