I read your article 'Reality check' with great interest (see (2006) Gazette, 14 September, 22).

I am a commercial litigation solicitor, but I am also a special constable.


I recently had to give evidence in the magistrates' court as an officer and as the victim of an assault.

Although I am used to being in both the county and high courts, I had never been in a criminal court, given evidence or been cross-examined before.


The experience was a daunting one. However, I was fortunate that as a lawyer I had experience of preparing for court hearings and therefore I was able to prepare myself for the trial. We succeeded in securing an assault charge.


But I feel strongly that training trainee officers in giving evidence in court should be a vital part of their probation period. I am aware that this is included as part of their training but I feel that what Julian Young is doing is invaluable.


Preparation is key. It is just a shame that this kind of experience and training cannot be rolled out on a wider scale.


Claire Windsor, Chelmsford, Essex