A YOUNG mum who helped herself to £15 from her boss was conditionally discharged for 18 months.

Burnley Magistrates heard Mobeen Saddique, 19, took the cash from a purse at Bowden Packaging, Hapton, while the managing director was hiding in a space under a stairway.

Saddique of Richmond Hill Street, Accrington, admitted theft and must also pay £65 costs. She was of previous good character.

Tom Snape, prosecuting, said a number of thefts took place at the firm between the end of August and the start of September.

The managing director took all staff members into the canteen, told them about the items missing and said theft would not be tolerated.

He later noted the serial numbers of a £5 and £10 note, put them in a purse and left them it in the canteen. He then hid in a space under the stairway and kept watch.

Mr Snape the defendant went into the canteen, took the cash from the purse and left.

Police were called and an officer reported that the number on the notes matched those noted by the managing director.

Mr Snape said Saddique was arrested and said she only did it once. She was taken to the police station and interviewed and admitted taking the £15.

She denied any involvement in the previous thefts but said she had had money problems.