A magistrates' court has reopened after a £380,000 upgrade.

Guisborough Magistrates' Court closed in November so that new cells could be built and access for the disabled installed.

The court faced closure three years ago when the nearby police station was relocated and its cells closed, which meant all cases involving prisoners in custody had to be heard at Middlesbrough.

Eventually, the Court Service provided the cash for the new cells to be built to cut down on witness travel time and reduce demands on police.

Colin Monson, chief executive of the Cleveland Magistrates' Courts Service, said: "I am delighted that this essential work has been completed on time and within budget. These improvements demonstrate the Magistrates' Courts Committee's commitment to provide an effective and efficient service to the community.

"With the completion of the new cells we will be able to increase the number of court hearings at Guisborough and speed up the delivery of justice. Our success in keep- ing Guisborough courthouse alive demonstrates the value of locally-based administration by people who understand the needs of the community."

Jim Donaldson, chairman of the Langbaurgh East bench of magistrates, said: "I welcome this initiative and the improvements that have been made to the courthouse. Magistrates are again able to dispense local justice to the people of Langbaurgh East."