71. Lunch at the Old Bailey, 4 January 2019

As 2019 dawned, the Masters year got off to a prompt start with an invitation to join Sheriff The Hon Liz Green and four Queens Counsels’ for lunch at the Old Bailey. What an opportunity to see behind the scenes of the Central Criminal Court, one of the most famous buildings in London if not the world! So, it was with great excitement that I reported to the Lord Mayors entrance off Warwick Square at 12:30 precisely.

After an airport-style security check, I was welcomed into Sheriff Liz Greens private quarters for a small (soft) drinks reception. Joined at first by six other personal guests of Liz, we chatted whilst awaiting the judges. As this was the first week after Christmas, the case load was not great and all four judges were able to complete their hearings in the morning so they seemed very relaxed when they joined us for the lunch itself.

This was a light meal with soft drinks and coffee and was expertly served. Chatting over lunch one quickly realises that despite them being at the top of their profession, a QC is like everyone else and they have absolutely no airs and graces. I found all of them (two women, two men) to be utterly charming and interesting and they seemed to really enjoy meeting people.

But it was very much a working lunch and they soon had to return to their chambers to complete the paperwork for their respective cases.

After lunch we were offered a chance to see the witness support suites at the top of the building. It was fascinating to be shown around by two of the volunteers – Victoria and Madeline - who man the suites each day. It was very impressive and clearly every care is taken to ensure witnesses and their families are kept safe during a very stressful time. A real credit to the legal system.

But the show stopper for me was to be able to visit Number One Court of the Old Bailey, perhaps the most famous court room in the world! The sense of history was palpable and one could almost feel and hear the famous trials that have taken place in that very room. It is certainly best however to be there as a visitor and not in any other capacity! A truly memorable experience.

We were then shown some other parts of this wonderful building before concluding with a quick look at the old Roman wall (the word bailey comes from the French baile meaning wall) way down in the cellars. Remarkable history and a remarkable building.

And so the tour was over. Thank you to the staff at the Old Bailey for making our visit so special and for the hospitality from Sheriff Green. Pictures show the area under the central dome of the Old Bailey and the world-famous Number One Court.