MORE than 100 people have come forward to become a magistrate following a shortage of Justices of the Peace.

Staff at Bolton Magistrates Court have reported a positive response since an appeal was launched earlier this week.

A recruitment drive has begun to make up the numbers from the current 185.

For the courts to run more efficiently, a total of 230 magistrates are needed.

The shortage comes as a result of JPs retiring and a lack of magistrates progressing through the system.

Magistrates deal with 97 per cent of adult and youth criminal cases in England and Wales.

No qualifications are needed, but magistrates must dedicate at least 26 half-days a year. Administrator Madeline Stocks said: "We have had a great response and ask anybody who still wants to become a magistrate to get in touch."

Fourteen of the 16 new Justices of the Peace appointed at Bolton were sworn in on July 29 at Bolton Crown Court.

The remaining two - Alan Mather and Michael Terence Griffin - were sworn in on August 23 before Mrs Janet Taylor, Chairman of the Bolton Bench. For more information contact Madeleine Stocks on 01204 558227 or email Drop a line...madeleine.stocks@gmmcc.mcs.gsi.gov.uk.

Alternatively, write to Robert Walker, deputy secretary to the Bolton Advisory Committee, at Bolton Magistrates Court, Civic Centre, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton. BL1 1QX.