A prominent judge celebrated his 60th birthday party with his friends and colleagues at a party at West London Magistrates' Court.
District Judge Justin Philips, who runs the dedicated drugs court in the Hammersmith courthouse in Talgarth Road, turned 60 on Friday.
At lunchtime on the big day, 75 friends, court staff and fellow judges joined him to sip drinks and nibble sandwiches.
"I have had a wonderful time," DJ Philips said. "One of my friends made the most moving speech. It was very nice."
A Jewish prayer was read by one of two rabbis who attended and speeches were made about the judge, before partygoers mingled on the roof terrace in the sun.
Judge Justin, as he is known, was colourfully clad in what he called a 'bumble-bee coloured' rugby shirt with an anti-drugs message printed on the back. It had been specially made for him in South Africa, from where he had just returned after a two-and-a-half week holiday.
He was appointed eight months ago to a special panel which advises the government on drugs policy.
Many of the revellers at his party were interested in the judge's well-known work with drugs offenders, which includes running the only drugs court in London.
His maverick methods mean he wears jeans and sweatshirts in court, and provides offenders with his mobile number so they can call him for supportive chats.
One of those who has got to know the judge's methods well is probation officer John Michelson, who paid tribute to the judge.
"I sit in his court quite often, and he's very down-to-earth," said Mr Michelson. "He treats everyone like they are human beings, and is approachable. It's a very friendly court. He makes everyone feel wanted and special here."
Also present was former Tory cabinet minister Jonathan Aitken, who said he thought the judge's work is 'breaking extremely important new ground'.
Judge Justin said his party was followed by an event for friends and family on Saturday which raised £500 for drugs charities.
