Magistrates Sentenced to Go Back in Time and Experience Rough Justice!

 Local magistrates have been plundering the wardrobe department of Newport Playgoers to find Victorian costumes for a re-enactment of real-life court cases from yesteryear.


Magistrates, solicitors and members of Newport Playgoers
Society try on Victorian costumes at the Dolman Theatre in
preparation for their re-enactment of real life trials.
PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL

The public will be able to see harsh sentences and rough justice handed out in the historic courtroom at Usk Sessions House on Saturday 17th September when the magistrates stage their version of crime and punishment 19th Century style.

“The event is one of many celebrating 650 years of magistrates in the UK,” said Clare Drewett, who has written the script for the event based on actual transcripts of Victorian trials.

“It’s sure to be an entertaining and educational session which will provide an insight into how justice was meted out in the past. The trials include neighbourhood disputes, stabbings and passing counterfeit coins. I think people will be very surprised by the sentences which range from transportation to imprisonment with hard labour.

“Usk Sessions House is the perfect venue for the trials as it’s the only truly authentic Victorian court room left in Britain. We hope lots of people will come along and see this lively event - and join in as well by heckling and cheering from the public gallery."

The re-enacted trials will take place between 2 – 4 pm on Saturday 17th September at Usk Sessions House in Maryport Street, Usk.

.