Judge Matthews: compassionate, knowledgeable, fair and humane

4:36pm Wednesday 14th May 2008

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JUDGES, barristers and staff packed a court room to say goodbye to a Herefordshire judge.

Judge David Matthews, who has held his current post for more than 15 years, has retired, although occasionally he will continue to sit as a deputy circuit judge.

He had previously been a solicitor at the Hereford firm of TA Matthews and Co for 28 years.

Judge Matthews said before the farewell gathering at Worcester Crown Court: “I started sitting as an assistant recorder in 1986 and became a recorder in 1989. Twenty-five years ago it was unusual for a solicitor, rather than a barrister, to become a judge.” Judge Matthews sat at Birmingham Crown Court and Hereford Crown Court as well as at Worcester.

He said: “I’ve tried crimes of every kind. I’ve done murder cases and serious fraud cases. It’s a fascinating job because no two cases are ever the same.” He is looking forward to spending time enjoying the company of his family, including his four grandchildren.

Fellow Judge Alistair McCreath said: “I know how good he was. He was fair, compassionate, knowledgeable and humane. He was a first class judge and we wish him a long and happy retirement.”