A string of shoplifting offences eventually caught up with a woman who was stealing to fund a drug habit.

Blackburn magistrates heard many of the offences committed by Danielle Ruddy were captured on CCTV and she was identified.

Ruddy, 35, of Langroyd Road, Colne, pleaded guilty to 10 charges of shoplifting.

She was given a 12-month community order with 20 rehab activity days and a six-month drug treatment requirement. She was ordered to pay £260 compensation.

David Lawson, defending, said the pre-sentence report prepared by the probation service detailed some traumatic personal issues which led to the addiction problems.

“She is addressing those by self referring and she is hopeful of getting a place in rehab in the near future,” said Mr Lawson.

“She would welcome the opportunity to work with the probation service.