A WOMAN whose benefits were sanctioned because she hadn't applied for enough jobs found herself without money for six weeks.

Blackburn magistrates heard in desperation Georgina Power started stealing from shops.

Power, 48, of Mallard Place, Oswaldtwistle, pleaded guilty to stealing five perfumes worth £239 from Boots on June 21 and stealing razor blades and fragrances worth £102 from the same store the following day. She was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £239 compensation.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said the first offence was caught on CCTV and when Power returned to the store the following day she was recognised and detained as she left.

Richard Prew, defending, said after her benefits were sanctioned Power lost her home because she couldn't pay the rent and had to rely on friends to put her up.

"It was through desperation that she turned to this," said Mr Prew. "There has been no offending in the last 20 years."