A legal adviser at Barkingside Magistrates' Court has celebrated his 58th year of working for the courts system.

Brian Gilbert, who turns 80 next month, initially started work as an usher court assistant at the old Thames Magistrates’ Court back in January 1966.

His career began with a recommendation from his future father-in-law and developed steadily until he qualified as a legal adviser in 1970.

Brian became the bench legal manager at Barking and Barkingside Magistrates’ Court, responsible for training magistrates and doing committee work.

Throughout his lengthy career, Brian has seen people from all walks of life pass through the court, from infamous London gangsters to high-profile footballers.

He said: "One day I could be sitting with three housewives, the next day I could be sitting with three trade union members, or I could have a mixture of both in.

"It's the variety of people that I work with, that’s the beauty of it, and not knowing when you go into work what's going to happen."

Brian's knowledge and dedication have earned him respect from those he has trained, according to deputy director of legal operations Tom Ring.

Mr Ring said: "Brian was very popular with the magistrates and was trusted by them.

"He was also greatly respected by the advocates.

"He could be trusted with any difficult case."

Brian also shared his advice for those considering a career in law.

He said: "Never ever take anything for granted.

"Never be frightened to ask.

"Enjoy what you do but bear in mind that doing your job can mean that someone at the end of the day loses their liberty."

He is not yet ready to retire and still loves his work.

The 79-year-old said: "I think there are very few people that I've met who can say that they've enjoyed their working life as much as I have.

"I'm still happy with what I'm doing.

"I've never had a situation where I don't want to go to work because I love what I do."