Woman stole after benefits sanction

Nicola Davidson, 38, of General Street, Blackpool, pleaded guilty to shoplifting and being in breach of a conditional discharge for theft.

She was sentenced to a 12 months community order with up to 25 days rehabilitation and told to pay £85 costs plus £60 victims’ surcharge by Blackpool magistrates.

Prosecutor, Pam Smith, said Davidson was caught outside Boots, Bank Hey Street, on March 11 about 6pm after stealing £134 worth of hair products.

Jessica Partington, defending, said her client was desperate and did not know what else to do but steal as she had no money for food.