One of the most senior judges in Bradford has told of his pride in serving the city after getting a prestigious new appointment.

Judge James Goss QC has been made the Recorder of Newcastle, the most senior judicial position at the top tier Court centre. He takes up the post in less than two weeks.

The Yorkshire-born class one judge had been based at Bradford Crown Court for 18 months after more than 30 years as a criminal barrister.

His departure, as one of only two Bradford judges able to preside over the most serious cases, is a blow but court management expects to have his replacement in position by the time he departs.

Judge Goss has been the sentencing judge on a number of high-profile cases in Bradford, including Daniel Taylor, who he ordered to be detained without time limit under the Mental Health Act after stabbing to death his nine-year-old brother, and Bradley Willis, who Judge Goss gave a minimum 14-year life sentence for stabbing his friend to death in a row over £10.

He told the Telegraph & Argus yesterday: “I am genuinely sorry to be leaving Bradford. I have thoroughly enjoyed my appointment here.

“It was a good place to start in the judiciary and I have found it a very welcoming court centre with an extraordinarily dedicated court staff.

“I have done some very interesting cases in Bradford and I have made a lot of friends here. I hope I have done what I have been asked to do as well as I can.

“But you can’t stand still in life, and I am looking forward to the new challenge in Newcastle.”

Outside of court, Judge Goss, 58, is keen on golf, reading and skiing.

  • Read the full story Wednesday’s T&A