Oakham Castle in Rutland is transformed into a crown court for the day, upholding a traditional that makes it one of the oldest-continuously used courts in the country

Oakham Castle has continued to serve as one of the longest-serving seats of English justice.

On Tuesday, guests from Rutland and further afield, attended as the castle was turned into a crown court for the day.

It is one of the oldest-continuously used courts in the country, having sat as a crown every two years since 1229.

Court of Appeal Judge, the Honourable Mr Justice Jeremy Baker oversaw the proceedings of four cases in the building. Reports of the two that were dealt with are below - two were adjourned.

Before the court session, the dignitaries processed from the castle to All Saints’ Church for a service of prayer and thanksgiving for those who administer the law.

Among the guests who were present included the High Sheriff of Rutland, Margaret Miles, magistrates from the local bench, county and town councillors, senior police, fire and army officers; along with the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness.

Defendants for the cases are rarely from Rutland.