The new network, based in County Durham and Darlington, means specially trained magistrates will now deal with all "sensitive" cases adjourned for trial.

Domestic violence, racist, homophobic and other hate crimes will now be dealt with by these dedicated courts.

One of the first sittings will be at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court, in the Prime Minister's constituency.

We want the community to have increased confidence in the criminal justice system by providing this unique service. Portia Ragnauth, Durham Chief Crown Prosecutor

Tony Blair's wife, Cherie Booth QC, has voiced her support for the development.

She said: "Court procedures that make the process less intimidating for victims of domestic violence are to be welcomed.

'Raise awareness'

"I am delighted that the first such court in England and Wales is in Newton Aycliffe."

The scheme has the backing of all the criminal justice agencies, including police, probation, prisons, the Crown Prosecution Service and the courts.

Portia Ragnauth, the chief crown prosecutor in Durham, said: "It is important to raise awareness of domestic violence and hate crimes that should have no part in our society.

"By creating these specialist courts we hope to encourage more victims to come forward and give evidence.

"We want the community to have increased confidence in the criminal justice system by providing this unique service."