TWO shoplifters left Mothercare with stolen property in their jackets, Burnley Magistrates heard.

The court was told how Marie Josephine Niland, 34, took all the blame and said it had nothing to do with her accomplice, Antoinette Kelly Heap,39.

Niland, who has a record for theft, was given a 12 months conditional discharge with no order for costs. The defendant, of Pollard Street, Burnley, admitted stealing from shop premises.

Heap, of Willow Street, Burnley, admitted three counts of theft and two of failing to comply with a community rehabilitation order.

The defendant, who had 72 previous convictions for theft and offended on bail, was given 80 hours community punishment.

Mark Williams, defending, said Niland tried to take full responsibility for one of the thefts and claimed it was entirely down to her.

He said Heap offended because she had no money but she could stay out of trouble when things were going well.

Her benefits had been suspended and her partner was in custody. When he was released the two of them had to live for 10 to 12 days on his £46 discharge grant. They did not succeed.

Mr Williams added the offences were not committed for drugs. Heap was not using drugs and her benefits were now being paid.