Work of court's clerk rewarded (From Penarth Times)

Work of court's clerk rewarded

BARRY Magistrates' Court clerk has been awarded top marks for his work with a Government scheme called Operation Black Vote to help ethnic minorities integrate into court positions.

Anthony Secular was awarded a Leadership in Diversity award for his outstanding contribution in improving diversity within the magistracy.

Mr Secular, who is the Leadership in Diversity Champion, said: "It is very pleasing to receive this award and the scheme has been a great success.

"It has helped to build up knowledge of the magistracy and the work of the courts among members of our local minority ethnic communities.

It has also improved our understanding of the communities we serve.

"In the long term, the benefits will be great in terms of improved community engagement and increased public confidence in the magistrates' courts."

The 2003/4 Operation Black Vote and magistrates' shadowing scheme was formally drawn to a close with a gala dinner on Friday, December 3, at the Hilton London Metropole.

Shadows' and mentor magistrates from Barry Magistrates Court were joined by prominent members of the judiciary, including Britain's first black High Court judge, Mrs Justice Dobbs, and leading black QC Courtenay Griffiths, who recognised the contributions and achievements of Barry's Magistrates Court in aiding diversity.

Abu Askira, of Cardiff, a Vale magistrate hopeful, said: "The magistrates shadowing scheme has provided an enlightening insight into the magistracy.

"I applied to the scheme because I wanted to gain an understanding of the workings of the magistrates courts and ensure that the magistracy becomes more representative of the communities it serves.

"I would encourage anyone who wishes to give something valuable back to the community to consider applying to become a magistrate too."

Simon Woolley, director of Operation Black Vote, said: "This shadowing scheme is a ground-breaking project working towards a more equitable and inclusive civic society.