BUDDING lawyers became barristers, jurors and witnesses for the day in a national competition.

Cronton College Sixth Form students took part in the Bar National Mock Trial Competition which aims to introduce 15 to 18-year-olds to the legal system.

The regional competition, organised by the Bar Council and the Citizenship Foundation, was held at Liverpool Crown Court.

Students played the parts of barristers, witnesses, court staff and jurors, while competing against teams from 11 schools and colleges.

The performances were then judged by real-life circuit judges, recorders and senior barristers.

The students spent weeks preparing two criminal cases.

College law tutor Lucy Knowles said: “The level of competition was fierce and although Cronton College fought their three rounds to an exceptionally high standard, they narrowly missed out on competing in the final.

“The students had a fantastic day and were able to expand their understanding of the law, develop skills in argument and reasoning,and learn more about career opportunities at the Bar.”

Andy Thornton, chief executive of the Citizenship Foundation, said: “This kind of hands-on experience is an incredibly valuable learning opportunity for young people and is a great way of introducing them to a profession that they might know little about outside of common television portrayals.

“The competition teaches strong skills in debating, analytical thinking and reasoning, and builds confidence in public speaking.

“We have had an unprecedented volume of schools signing up to take part this year which signals the value that school teachers place on this annual competition.”

One student who played a defence witness said: “The day was thoroughly enjoyable and provided an insight into court proceedings.”

“I’d encourage anyone who is interested in law to go for it, it was so interesting.”