Jurors-to-be who feel daunted by the prospect of an impending court appearance can now quell their fears with a pre-trial visit via the internet.

Those keen to prepare for their stint in the jury box can get a realistic idea of what to expect during their time in court by logging on to a website that guides them through the unfamiliar surroundings using pictures, sound and text.

The 500,000 people who are called up for jury service each year are to receive a leaflet informing them about the www.cjsonline.org, which was developed by the government's criminal justice integration unit, the court service, BT and communications firm Gallomanor.

The service is aimed at jurors who are unlikely to have ever stepped inside a court before, court service chief executive Ian Magee said.

"The virtual tour will help to demystify the process, providing jurors with a realistic walk-through of what jury service will be like," he added.

Home Office minister Keith Bradley said: "Jury service can be a daunting experience, but is a vital part of our legal process. Modernising the criminal justice system and making it more accessible is a priority."