EXPERIMENTAL courts to tackle night crime could be introduced in Swindon.

Michael Wills, MP for North Swindon and Minister for Courts, is spearheading the night courts initiative, which saw pilot schemes launched in London and Manchester this week.

He says that if the extra sessions are a success, they could be launched in the town.

"If the pilot works, it is potentially relevant to all large urban areas, including Swindon," he said.

Downing Street wanted the trial courts, based on those in New York, to sit six days a week from 10am to 10pm or midnight. But the plans were scaled down after Home Office warnings of difficulties.

Manchester's city magistrates court began at 9am, an hour earlier than normal, from Monday to handle remand cases and help clear "over-nighters". Two nights a week the court will sit until 8pm, instead of the usual 4pm.

From today, Bow Street magistrates court in London will operate a late night session from 6pm to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays to deal with cases building up over the weekend and to ease pressure on Mondays.

Mr Wills said: "These schemes aim to ensure that criminal justice is able to deal swiftly and effectively with night offenders. They will act as a deterrent, sending a clear signal that criminals cannot get off scot free."

The pilot, lasting four months, will also make life easier for victims and witnesses who have to give evidence in court.

Because Swindon is an area of low unemployment, Mr Wills said the earlier or later sessions will be more convenient for many local workers.

He added: "The scheme has clear benefits as people will be able to fit court appearances in with their jobs. But we will have to wait and see whether it takes off in Swindon."