A WOMAN with almost 160 offences to her name — 60 of them for theft — struck again when she stole chocolate worth £9.90.

Burnley magistrates heard how Dawn Christie, 46, had had money problems and had fallen on hard times.

She had gone into B and M Stores in Burnley on March 4, helped herself to a handful of chocolate bars and tried to walk out, but was stopped by security.

The hearing was told Christie told police she was going to eat some of the haul and sell the rest for cash for food.

The defendant, of Penistone Street, Burnley, admitted theft. She was given a 12 month conditional discharge and must pay a £15 victim surcharge.

Daniel Frazer, defending Christie, said there was very little sophistication behind the offence.

She made admissions to the security guard, and there was no resistance, fighting or arguing with staff.