VISITORS to a court will see mock trials and the wills of such figures as Princess Diana, William Shakespeare and Freddie Mercury.

Those are just some of the events to be staged during the open day at the Teesside Combined Court Centre and the Teesside Magistrates' Court, in Middlesbrough, on Saturday.

The events link with Inside Justice Week, which aims to raise awareness of all aspects of the criminal justice system.

At the Combined Court Centre, in Russell Street, visitors will be able to see mock trials, conducted by circuit judges and barristers, and take part in the jury to pass their verdict.

There will also be an opportunity to take part in a question-and-answer session with the Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Peter Fox.

At the nearby Teesside Magistrates building, in Victoria Square, visitors can see how youth and adult courts operate, join tours of the building and visit the cells.

Several agencies and organisations involved in the criminal justice system will be represented at the two courts, including the police, probation, prison, youth offending, witness and Crown Prosecution services.

The company which operates electronic tagging of offenders and groups which work with drug users and victims of domestic violence, provide mediation and legal advice services and work with offenders, will also be at the courts.

The open day at both court buildings will run from 10am to 3pm on Saturday.