STUDENTS from Hereford's Steiner Academy were crowned runners-up at the UK finals of a mock-trial competition.

The Much Dewchurch school competed in the Citizenship Foundation’s Bar Mock Trial Competition finals.

Teams from 18 schools competed in three rounds resulting in Hereford Steiner Academy and Wirral Grammar School going head-to-head in the grand final.

Teacher Paul Hougham, from the academy, said: “There was high drama and serious legal wrestling with issues and evidence throughout the competition.

"We are a small rural school and utterly delighted with the achievements of our students. It was a fantastic experience for all involved.”

Three senior judges presided over the competition: Lord Justice Leveson, representing England and Wales, Lady Rae, representing Scotland, and Mark Mulholland QC from Northern Ireland.

The competition is open for 15 to 18-year-olds and helps pupils learn about the law by running a mock trial.

The Herefordshire team were mentored by Simon Ward of St Phillips Chambers, Colmore Row and are eligible for the Empire Mock Trial world championship in New York in October.