THREE magistrates from Great Yarmouth's courts were honoured for long service at a ceremony held at County Hall yesterday. Robert Allison, Mike Deavin and Gillian Philpot are among the twelve Norfolk magistrates who have served on benches in the county for twenty years.

THREE magistrates from Great Yarmouth's courts were honoured for long service at a ceremony held at County Hall yesterday.

Robert Allison, Mike Deavin and Gillian Philpot are among the twelve Norfolk magistrates who have served on benches in the county for twenty years.

Richard Jewson, Chairman of the County Advisory Committee, said: "I am proud to be part of this occasion.

"The county's Magistrates provide an important public service to local communities and these awards will help to give them the recognition that they so greatly deserve."

Magistrates come from a whole range of backgrounds and occupations and know the local community that they represent well. All criminal cases start in the Magistrates Court, with 97% concluded there.