A WOMAN working at a NHS facility in Accrington stole gift cards which were intended as incentives for pregnant women to give up smoking.

Blackburn magistrates heard Amie Holt went off sick with stress when the thefts were discovered, claiming she would be the one blamed.

But investigations revealed CCTV footage of her using the stolen cards and online registration which also identified her.

Holt, 28, of Byng Street, Heywood, pleaded guilty to theft of Love 2 Shop gift cards worth £696 from The Mount, Accrington

She was made subject to a curfew for six weeks between 8pm and 6am and ordered to pay £696 compensation, £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Enza Geldard, prosecuting, said at the time of the offence, in March, Holt worked as an administrator at the Mount and had day-to-day access to the vouchers.

When she was confronted with the evidence Holt admitted stealing vouchers but denied being responsible for all the ones that were missing.

“There were a lot more stolen than are detailed in the charge against this defendant,” said Mrs Geldard.

David Hewitt, defending, said his client, who had no previous convictions, had worked at the Mount for three months. The father of her child had left her with a credit card debt and she was struggling financially.

“She hasn’t used the money for luxuries by any stretch of the imagination,” said Mr Hewitt.

“She spent it on food and clothing. It is the first time in her life she has been in this kind of situation.”