PLANS to close Pickering magistrates' court will mean an end to local justice and must be fought all the way, say Ryedale councillors.

The calls came as details of a public meeting emerged, where the future of the courthouse will be discussed.

Coun Gary Hobbs told Ryedale District Council he was "absolutely appalled" by the plans.

He said: "This absolutely infuriates me.

"The notion of local justice is diminishing and we are seeing the negation of local democracy."

Coun Hobbs said he wanted to ensure as many protesters packed out next week's meeting, to be held on Monday in Pickering Courthouse.

He added: "We all know that the basic decision has been made.

"But I think we need to make as much noise as possible about it."

Proposals put forward by the North Yorkshire Magistrates' Courts Committee suggest a central courthouse in Scarborough should serve the entire Ryedale area.

But opponents say it is impractical to expect people to rely on public transport to attend court.

Council leader Coun Alan Farnaby said for those living in the south of the district it would be almost impossible.

Coun Farnaby, who lives in Sheriff Hutton, said: "How is anyone in the south going to be able to get to Scarborough?

"It could take longer than three hours from some places, and only if there were buses running at that time of day."

Councillors agreed last night to lobby the magistrates' court committee, with a letter is to be sent from Ryedale District Council chief executive Harold Mosley detailing councillors' concerns.

Updated: 09:06 Friday, December 14, 2001