I've been asked to write a character reference for court for a friend. Has anyione ever done this and so can help with writing it. I've no problem in saying he's of good charcter etc but how do I pad it out, if indeed I need to ? Any examples ?

This very same question was asked (and answered) on here not so long ago. Try a search.

Here you are:

http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=98002&highlight=character+reference+court

Include how long you've known them, in what capacity, any sort of activities they are involved in which show they have a good character, examples of times when they have shown good character through the course of every day life - e.g. anything they do to help others, like a neighbour or baby-sitting etc. Talk about their employment if applicable, particularly if you know they particularly love their job and are especially committed to it.

Thanks to both of you, that was useful.