MARRIED couples from Alcester were put through their paces at the town hall on Friday as an ancient tradition was brought back to life.

The Court Leet held a 'Flitch Trial' where three couples had their marriages scrutinised in public.

The people taking part were Mr and Mrs Andrews, Mr and Mrs Roberts and Mr and Mrs Cooper, the latter coming out the victors.

The people on trial were asked all about when and where they met, when they got married, their hobbies and interests and what annoys them.

A jury made up of people from around the area then deliberated before choosing John and Suzanne Cooper as the winners.

And as a prize for putting their marriage on public trial, the couple won a flitch of bacon, which weighs between 20-25lbs and is worth up to £50.

This was the first time the tradition had been revived in more than 20 years.