TWO Romanian women caught stealing bags full of clothing from a Blackburn store claimed they only committed the offence because they had forgotten their bank cards.

Blackburn magistrates heard the women had travelled from Oldham and claimed they were just coming for a day out.

Ramona Andronic, 29, of Huxley Street, Oldham, pleaded guilty to stealing clothing worth £160 from H & M Stores in Blackburn on March 29.

Florenta Paun, 32, of Saxon Street, Oldham, pleaded guilty to stealing clothing worth £144 from the same store which is located in The Mall.

They were both fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 victim surcharge.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said three women were in the H & M store selecting clothes and putting them in bags.

The defendants were detained after a member of the public pointed out they had gone into another shop but the third woman, who was carrying a baby, managed to escape.

Helen Farnsworth, defending, said both women had seven children and were reliant on benefits.

"They had come to Blackburn for a day out shopping and realised they had forgotten their cash cards," said Mrs Farnsworth.

"They are both remorseful and say it won't happen again."