A KEY service helping witnesses in court is urging more people to join its team ahead of the new magistrates court opening in Worcester.

The Worcester Witness Service will have new facilities in the Castle Street court building when it opens in the New Year.

The service is part of the national Victim Support Scheme and, in South Worcestershire last year, helped more than 1,000 witnesses.

"We're fortunate to have a witness service in all our courts," said Paul Tibble, witness service co-ordinator.

"We're looking forward to continuing our work in the new court building, which will provide excellent facilities for people attending court.

"With the opening of the new building and its additional courts we need to add to our team."

Mr Tibble said they were aiming to train volunteers in November so that they were ready for when the courts opened.

The service is available to all witnesses attending court and provides information and support at what can be an anxious time.

It offers witnesses a pre-trial familiarisation visit, information on court procedures and support on the day.

Anyone who would like to know more about the service can call Mr Tibble on 01905 724082.