Courthouse squatters are poised to start 'greed trials'

Occupy London demonstrators have agreed to leave a disused court they took over last month - but not before holding mock trials in protest at bankers' greed.

They have promised to leave Old Street magistrates' court in Shoreditch by January 23 after reaching an "amicable" legal agreement with the building's owner, Mastcraft Ltd.

However, they will first open up the Grade II-listed courthouse to the public for the mock trials of bankers and corporations accused of greed and tax avoidance, using real lawyers and a retired judge.

A note on the front door reads: "We're cleaning and making the place beautiful, but will be very happy to welcome you all in soon." The names of politicians and finance corporations are written above cell doors beneath the court.

Siggy, 24, one of 12 protesters living in the building, said: "We want to bring to justice those who have not been put to trial." The activists, who started their protest at the St Paul's "tent city", also occupy Finsbury Square and an empty City banking office.