Protest against Kingston Magistrates' Court closure

Campaigners fighting to save a south London court from closure have staged a demonstration.

Kingston Magistrates' Court is one of 11 magistrates' courts in the capital which could close under Ministry of Justice plans announced in June.

Dozens of people including magistrates and councillors converged at Kingston Guildhall to protest against the plans.

David Mullholland, chairman of Kingston Magistrates' Court, said: "We want local justice for local people."

Community support

He added: "We are one of the most efficient courts in London and one of the cheapest to run.

"We have a very good case and strong support from the local community."

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: "We will take all views into account before making any decision on which courts ought to be closed and when.

"Ministers have said they are keen to hear the views of everyone with an interest in local justice arrangements."

The public consultation period over Kingston Magistrates' Court will finish on 15 September.

Other London courts that face the prospect of closure are Acton, Haringey, Harrow, Sutton, Barking, Brentford, Woolwich, Balham Youth Court, Waltham Forest and Tower Bridge.