A VULNERABLE woman was woken in the night as a female broke into her sheltered accommodation flat.

Blackburn magistrates heard the victim confronted Sarah Healey who became aggressive and only left when she pulled the alarm cord.

Healey, 36, of Perry Street, Darwen, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft of a handbag containing a purse, bank cards, keys and a small amount of cash on September 8. She was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court to be sentenced on November 18.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said the householder was asleep when she heard the sound of someone forcing a window.

"She got up and confronted the defendant who, it turned out, she knew," said Miss Allan.

Ben Leach, defending, said his client was realistic about the position she was in.

"There are a number of aggravating features, including the confrontation that took place," said Mr Leach.

Healey also pleaded guilty to two charges of shoplifting which put her in breach of a suspended prison sentence. She was jailed for a total of 42 days for those offences committed in August and September.

Mr Leach said his client had a chaotic lifestyle and stole because she had insufficient money to live.

"She was receiving £130 a month universal credit and was living hand to mouth," he said.