VISITORS to Burnley Combined Court got to go behind the scenes as it opened its doors, including the cells, for the first time.

Saturday's open day was part of Inside Justice Week as staff showed visitors what it is like behind the scenes -- to dissuade them from having to appear in the dock.

The Lancashire Young Citizen of the Year, 15-year-old Jordan Dean, opened the event during which people could get the fingerprints and mugshots taken, explore the cells and watch a mock trial performed by youngsters from Accrington College.

Jordan, from Burnley, said: "It's my first and last time in a court. It's very weird to come inside. You see it on the television but to be here and see what it's like -- hopefully it will put a few people off wanting to come here."

Court manager Margaret McGuiness hopes Jordan will not be the only visitor to leave with that impression.

She said: "To arrive in the prison van is a bit different to being able to come in and have a look around.

"We've not had an open day before. The aim is to raise awareness of the criminal justice system. It's supposed to be fun but there's a serious side to it to.

"At the end of the day if people go inside the cells and see what an uncomfortable feeling it is they will think twice. People don't often get the chance to see the other side of the coin."