A DISPUTE with the benefits agency cost Linda Jackson her home, her family and an appearance in court on shoplifting charges.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Jackson's benefits had been stopped pending an investigation into her status and lack of money had driven her to steal to raise money for food.

Defence solicitor Michael Blacklidge said Jackson had lost her council accommodation and her three children, aged 17, 14 and 6 were all now living in different places.

"There is an appeal pending but it is a far from satisfactory situation," said Mr Blacklidge.

"She and her 14-year-old child are now lodging with her ex-partner, the 17-year-old is living with her boyfriend's parents and the six-year-old is being cared for by her mother."

Mr Blacklidge said the motivation for all Jackson's previous offending was drugs.

"The irony is that she has put that behind her and is now drug free," said Mr Blacklidge.

"These offences were committed when she was still trying to keep house and home together and she sold the items stolen to raise a few pounds to buy food."

Jackson, 37, of Brodick Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to two charges of shoplifting. She was remanded on bail for the preparation of pre-sentence reports.