A teenager who was caught on camera "purse dipping" in stores in Blackburn and Burnley on consecutive days was part of a distraction theft duo targeting shoppers.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard both victims were unaware of the theft until they went to the checkout to pay.

Nikita Goronova, 18, of Melville Street, Burnley, pleaded guilty to theft of a purse containing cash and bank cards in B&M Bargains, Blackburn, on October 29, and theft of a purse containing cash and bank cards in Marks and Spencer, Burnley, on October 30.

She was fined £120 and ordered to pay £270 in compensation and also must pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge, which must be paid in full within 28 days.

Rachel Evans, prosecuting, said CCTV footage showed there were two females involved in both offences. One acted as a distraction while the other stole a purse from a handbag in a shopping trolley.

"Both victims only realised what had happened when they got to the checkout," said Miss Evans.

She said the defendant, a Bulgarian national, was in the UK with leave to stay for six months.

Laura Heywood, mitigation, said her client had come to the UK three or four months ago with her husband with the hope of finding work.

"Unfortunately that has not happened and they are being supported by her husband's family who is sending money from Bulgaria," said Miss Heywood.