Magistrates adopt bricks and mortar approach to find more diverse recruits

The biggest ever recruitment drive for magistrates is being launched, with everyone from bricklayers to teachers being urged to apply in a bid to deliver more diversity.

More than 4,000 more justices of the peace are being sought as part of a major drive to help tackle the vast backlog in criminal cases .

Officials are also keen to attract a wider range of applicants with critics claiming magistrates are not representative of wider society.

According to the most recent statistics, only one per cent of magistrates is aged below 30, while 49 per cent are over 60.

The £1 million campaign is aiming to attract younger people and those from more diverse backgrounds.

Anyone who is able to dedicate a minimum of 13 days service a year and can display reason and sound judgment is being urged to apply.

Every part of society to be represented

The recruitment drive comes after the Ministry of Justice revealed plans to double a magistrate's sentencing powers , which means they will be able to jail a defendant for up to 12 months rather than six.

Dominic Raab , the Justice Secretary, said: "Magistrates are the unsung heroes of the justice system and we want people from every part of society represented in their ranks.

"If you care about your community and want to give back, then I would strongly encourage you to apply to become a magistrate. There are few other opportunities that can make such a difference in people's lives.

"Alongside our plans to double their sentencing powers from six months to a year, this recruitment drive will ensure magistrates can play an even greater role in restoring the swift justice the public deserve."