PUPILS from a Kidderminster school had to think on their feet and develop a "persona" to take top honours in a schools mock trial competition.

The students, from King Charles I School, took the parts of magistrates, prosecution and defence lawyers, defendants, witnesses and court officials in a specially written criminal case, featuring a charge of harassment of a neighbour.

Their performances were judged by local magistrates and legal professionals against pupils from 13 other schools in the Worcestershire heat of the national competition.

Mandy Barnes, the teacher who ran the project at the school, said the 16 pupils involved had shown a real "spark" to win.

She explained: "They had to think on their feet in giving answers or asking questions and really take on a persona.

"They all had a fantastic day and rose to the occasion. They had put a great deal of preparation in beforehand but had fun doing it.

"It gave them a chance to experience subjects not on the curriculum and some are now keen to embark on a career in law."

Greg Bennett, 14, played the defendant and brought a touch of humour to proceedings with a fake Australian accent and delivery of a few punchlines.

He said: "I really enjoy performing and this was something different to anything else I have done."

Josh Tiffany, 14, was the lead defence solicitor. He had to stand up in court and examine and cross examine the witnesses.

He said: "The best thing was the teamwork. It wasn't just one person who could win it for the team."

Adam Fey, 14, the second defence solicitor, also questioned the witnesses and took notes when his partner was in action.

The annual mock trial contest has been running for 14 years and is organised by the Citizenship Foundation in partnership with the Magistrates' Association, supported by the Ministry of Justice.

It is open to state funded schools, providing an opportunity for year eight and nine students to learn about the criminal justice system.

King Charles I pupils will now go forward to the regional finals in May.