A KNOWN shoplifter was followed round a store by a security guard and detained as she left without paying for £279 worth of jewellery.

Blackburn magistrates heard Susan Howarth admitted stealing to fund her drug habit.

Howarth, 50, of Hollingreave Road, Burnley, pleaded guilty to theft from Sainsburys.

She was made subject to a community order for six months with a drug rehabilitation activity and 10 days rehabilitation activity requirement.

She was fined £30 and ordered to pay £90 victim surcharge.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said the security officer saw Howarth take the jewellery and hide it in her undergarments before leaving the store.

Keith Rennison, defending, said it was an unsophisticated offence by someone with an extensive record for shoplifting.

"She still misuses crack cocaine and heroin but she does realise that at this stage of her life it has to stop," said Mr Rennison.

"She will accept any help that is offered."