COULD restorative justice play a part in reassuring Honiton residents that positive action is being taken to tackle minor offenders and compensate victims?

COULD restorative justice play a part in reassuring Honiton residents that positive action is being taken to tackle minor offenders and compensate victims?

A public meeting could be staged in the town later this year to gauge the public's support for the launch of a community justice panel.

Councillor Jill Shortland, the Mayor of Chard, who led a highly successful bid for a similar initiative in South Somerset, has agreed to speak at the meeting.

A panel was established in Chard after local courts were closed and cases transferred to Yeovil.

Honiton Magistrates' Court is no longer used for criminal cases.

Any bid for a panel would have to be community-led to attract funding.

If you are interested in attending a public meeting, call Midweek Herald editor Belinda Bennett on (01392) 888488.