A WOMAN relapsed into heroin abuse because of post-natal depression.

Blackburn magistrates heard Catherine Hannah Houghton had started stealing to fund her addiction after seven years out of trouble.

Houghton, 34, of East Park Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to stealing two bottles of perfume worth £108 from Debenhams. She was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 15 days rehabilitation activity requirement, fined £30 and ordered to pay £90 victim surcharge.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said Houghton was seen taking the perfume and stopped as she left the store. He said she was in breach of a conditional discharge for similar offences.

Richard Prew, defending, said his client had been out of trouble and clear of drugs for seven years.

"Following the birth of her last child she suffered from post-natal depression and unfortunately relapsed into heroin abuse," said Mr Prew.