THE four steps to giving evidence in court are:

Witnesses will either contact the police themselves to report a crime, or come forward following a press appeal. The Evening Advertiser frequently carries police appeals for information. The process starts with a witnesses making an official statement. This doesn't necessarily have to be done at a police station. Knowingly giving false information is a criminal offence.

If the witness is the victim of the crime, they can also be offered help. For example burglary victims are offered advice on home security.

The case file is passed from the police to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which decides whether it should proceed to court. If there is a strong enough case, the CPS will decide which witnesses are needed. Those who are required will be asked to attend court and will be given information about the Wiltshire Witness Service.

The witness gives evidence in court. Vulnerable witnesses, including children under 17, the elderly, people with disabilities and witnesses who fear intimidation can ask for special measures.

These include a screen around the witness box, giving evidence by live video link, asking the judge to clear the public gallery and asking for the judge and barristers to remove wigs and gowns. Witnesses can be given support before and after the trial.

After giving evidence, the judge will tell the witness that they are no longer required.

They may be called to give evidence again if the defendant appeals.