A 21-YEAR-OLD leisure centre assistant stole cash from the till because of financial problems, a court was told.

Blackburn magistrates heard that inquiries began when audit staff at Roefield Leisure Centre, Clitheroe, became concerned that takings at the swimming pool were down.

And Blackburn magistrates heard that a hidden camera showed that Sharon Adcroft was systematically taking notes from the till.

Adcroft, of Wilson Street, Clitheroe, pleaded guilty to three charges of theft from Ribble Valley Borough Council and asked for seven other offences to be taken into consideration.

She was given a community rehabilitation order for nine months, and ordered to pay £750 compensation and £75 costs.

Phillip Potter, prosecuting, said after noticing the downturn in takings inquiries showed there were an unusual number of voided transactions and contract swimmers using the facilities when Adcroft was on duty.

The hidden camera showed Adcroft periodically removing notes from the till and concealing them, before transferring them to her coat. She was interviewed by council officers and, after admitting her conduct, was sacked and the police informed.

When interviewed, Adcroft told how she would press the contract button when admitting people, or put payment in the till without ringing it through. She kept a note of how much extra money was in the till and then took it.

She said she was taking up to £60 a shift and said it had gone on for two months, although it could have been longer.

Daniel King, defending, said his client was a young woman of previous good character who was deeply embarrassed and ashamed of her conduct.

He said that some years ago Adcroft had gone through a difficult and violent relationship which ended with her partner being jailed for a vicious assault on her.

"During their relationship he had assured her that he was paying various debts and bills but, it transpired, he hadn't and she was left with considerable debts and commitments," said Mr King.