This is perhaps not an image every law firm would want published, but Oxford practice Marshall & Galpin was happy to send us this picture of partner Simon Bassett being led away by the police, presumably on charges of wearing a ridiculous costume.

It also told us that he had trouble finding a decent lawyer when he was arrested in front of colleagues and thrown into the back of a police van.

He was taken to the city's central police station, where he was read his rights, finger-printed and confined to a cell.

With only a mobile telephone at his disposal, he then had to secure 500 in bail money.

Although we're told colleagues initially seemed keener to pledge money to keep him in custody, he eventually walked out a free man some three hours later, having more than exceeded his target to raise funds for Deafblind UK.

He tells Obiter: 'At one stage, it was touch and go but I'm back at my desk and the handcuffs have been thrown away.

When we were approached by Deafblind UK, I didn't quite appreciate the stunt would be so realistic.

When the police officers arrived and the charges were read out at the office, my initial reaction was to make a run for it.'

The charity was also savvy enough to insist that Mr Bassett sign a disclaimer before he took part, agreeing not to sue for wrongful arrest or false imprisonment.

Special Constable Pius Lewis (left) and PC Paul Phillips did the honours - PC Phillips for one looks rather pleased to have a lawyer in cuffs - and we can only assume that it was a slow day for real crime in Oxford.

[This article refers to images that appear in the printed edition (see [2003] Gazette, 4 December, 11)]