Warwickshire people are being urged to consider becoming magistrates as the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) looks to diversify its volunteers.

The appeal - from the MoJ and the Judiciary of England and Wales - is part of a national drive to increase the number of those volunteering across England and Wales, including people from underrepresented groups in the magistracy.

Data on the diversity of the current magistracy in Birmingham and Solihull, Black Country, Coventry and Warwickshire over the last five years shows an increase in magistrates from underrepresented groups, including people under 50 (currently 18 per cent of the local judiciary) and people from an ethnic minority background (25 per cent).

But registrations have been kept open for another year as people from a wide range of are being urged to consider becoming magistrates.

No legal qualifications, degree or experience is required to be a magistrate.

Volunteers will be given thorough training as well as ongoing support to help make decisions on cases in criminal or family court.

Magistrates work closely in groups of three with a legal advisor, who offers guidance on the law.

From teachers to electricians, to stay-at-home parents, anyone aged between 18 and 70 who can commit to at least 13 days a year for at least five years is encouraged to come forward.

With support from magistrates in Warwickshire, the campaign seeks to boost numbers by recruiting 2,000 new magistrates across England and Wales this year.

Justice Minister Mike Freer said: "Ordinary people up and down the country play a vital role as magistrates helping ensure that crimes in their community are punished and we want more people to join them.

"I am always impressed by the people I meet who volunteer their time and experience from other walks of life and I would encourage anyone with a desire to help victims get justice to apply."

Applications are now open in Warwickshire, anyone looking to volunteer should follow this link for more information.