THREE long-serving Kidderminster magistrates have retired from the courts after years of dedicated public service.

Bob Steadman, 69, who first joined the Stourport bench in 1981, bowed out from Kidderminster Magistrates Court after 35 years with one final sitting on Friday, August 12.

He appeared alongside John Chester and Steve Gillespie, who are also retiring ahead of their 70th birthdays, as the trio ended their years of public service on the same bench.

A court spokesperson said: "The three of them all have birthdays within a few weeks of one another.

"We have to retire when we reach the age of 70 so they decided it would be nice if all three of them could sit together as one bench for their final sitting.

"Bob Steadman is a well-respected colleague who brought common sense and fairness to his role as a magistrate. He sat for many years on the family bench in particular.

"John Chester and Steve Gillespie both joined the bench in 2000.

"Steve was the last chairman of the Kidderminster bench before we merged to become a Worcestershire bench and oversaw the merger with great skill.

"They are sad to be departing after such a long service and we are very sorry to lose such a wealth of experience."

Their final sitting was preceded by a small coffee and cake ceremony acknowledging their contribution and commitment to the court.

Mr Steadman celebrates his 70th birthday on August 31, while Mr Gillespie and Mr Chester mark the date on September 2 and 4 respectively.