FOR decades and probably centuries the Andover Magistrates Court was held on the top floor of the Guildhall.

With the town expanding rapidly a purpose-built court was erected around the 1980s and little more than three decades later the main function was moved to such places as Basingstoke, Alton and Aldershot, even though the town was still expanding.

Local magistrates, police, solicitors and individuals have to find their way to these destinations, many with no transport and have to be there by 10 o’clock prompt, even though the case may not be heard ‘til late that day or even delayed to the next day.

Further visits may be needed for a prolonged case.

This move was made in the pursuit of efficiency.

An English citizen should have the right to be tried in their own town for a small crime committed there.

When in the history of this nation has this action not been possible?

A life-time magistrate told me of a case of a 16-year-old boy who had to leave Andover train station at 6am with his mother to get to Woking, then change for Aldershot.

His mother lost a day’s pay whereas in Andover the boy could have gone alone.

If you are new to Andover I recommend a book in the library called Andover’s Murder Mystery, very well written not that many years ago.

It gives a brilliant insight into life around the 1850s.

Derek Weeks, Martin Way, Andover