STUDENTS from Droitwich High School put up a strong battle in this year’s mock trial competition.

The heat took place at Worcester Magistrates court where nine schools competed.

The mock trial competition is run as an extra-curricular activity at the school and Droitwich Spa has a great track record of being tough opponents.

Although the youngsters did not win, the school said pupils once again put up a very good account of themselves and learnt all about the legal system.

Elizabeth Whitehouse, Head of year Eight at Droitwich Spa High School said:

“Even though we didn’t win, we came away feeling like winners.

“Our team supported each other, gained confidence and enjoyed the whole experience.”

The prosecution team who represented the school against Bewdley was:

Jade Doody (Legal Adviser), Philip Capewell and Hollie Walton (Prosecution Lawyers). Lauren Tandy and Toby Pugh played characters in the fictional drama at the centre of the case.

The defence team who competed against Alcester Academy was: Eleanor Baskerville and Sophie Wardley (Defence Lawyers). Beth Masters and Adam Prescott played characters in the drama and Alexander Matthews as the Usher.

Mrs Whitehouse said: “The mock trial competition is a great way for young people to gain a real insight into the way the legal system works in our country.

“It is so important for young people to understand their rights and responsibilities with regard to the law and this competition really offers them that.

“It can sometimes inspire them to follow a career in the law, but, just as importantly, it develops students’ skills in research, discussion, analysis, public speaking and communication.”

Sir Anthony Winnington, the High Sherriff for Worcestershire presented the award to the winner Bewdley High School, which will go on to a regional final.

The event has been running annually since 1994.