RECENTLY I accompanied a friend to court who was a 'claimant' in a road traffic accident.

I attended knowing that British justice is admired world-wide.

Indeed, both barrister's put the case -- in turn -- for both defendant and claimant in the most fair and skilful manner.

However, when it became obvious that the claimant had prevailed, the judge in his summing-up astonished those in the court by saying he could not believe that there were four cars parked near the scene of the accident -- even though there was photographic evidence to back this up.

Nevertheless, the real stunner came with his closing comment, that the defendant did not look like he would speed. Thus, dismissing the claim.

We all know the law can be an 'ass' but British justice has certainly been devalued by such comments. Incredulous! A blunder or bias?

J Hunt, Carrfield, Bamber Bridge.