TWO crown courts that "never stopped working" during the Covid pandemic have been awarded for covering trials for courts that closed across the south.

Winchester and Salisbury Crown Courts were recognised for covering more than 80 trials on behalf of 16 Crown Courts that closed during the pandemic.

The Inspire Justice Awards judging panel was impressed by the hard work and dedication shown by court staff to tackle outstanding case numbers increased by COVID-19 and keep the wheels of justice turning.

In addition to supporting the Crown Courts that were closed, Winchester and Salisbury Crown Courts stepped in to support cases from Swindon, when two of its courtrooms temporarily closed earlier this year.

Salisbury Journal: Staff at Salisbury Crown Court were recognised for their hard work during the pandemic.Staff at Salisbury Crown Court were recognised for their hard work during the pandemic. (Image: Newsquest)

“Winchester and Salisbury Crown courts never stopped working during pandemic in order to provide assistance to other courts across the region," said Svetlana Orriss, delivery manager at Winchester and Salisbury Crown Courts.

Accepting the award on behalf of staff at the court, Winchester Crown Court usher Barnard van den Berg said: “I think it's fantastic for the court, because everybody – whatever their role – has really put a lot of effort in, going above and beyond without complaining, and just getting on with the job.

“This is an incredible achievement which goes to show that through unity, dedication and a sense of shared purpose, we can achieve remarkable things.”