A WOMAN who travelled more than 30 miles from her home in an attempt to steal hundreds of pounds worth of shoes and make up has been told to do unpaid work.

Sally Smith, of Godalming, Surrey, and her friend were seen stashing shoes and make up into a bag for life in Marks and Spencer, in Festival Place, on March 24. Security were alerted to the pair and Smith dropped the items.

The 33-year-old pleaded guilty to theft at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court in April and appeared at the same court on Tuesday to be sentenced.

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Prosecutor Elizabeth Cox said while Smith and her friend did not get away with any items, they had employed the friend's young daughter to steal.

Ms Cox said that the girl was seen placing several items into a gift bag before walking out of the store and said "I was only doing what you told me to do”.

The court heard that in total they attempted to steal £377.15 worth of items, which included five pairs of shoes worth £225, and make up and nail varnish worth £152.

Speaking in court, Smith said: "I was just struggling at the time, and as soon as I realised what I was doing I dropped the bag. I am sorry and I will never do it again.”

Her friend, who had no previous convictions, was given a caution following the incident - she was not named in court.

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In sentencing, District Judge Tim Pattinson, said: “I give you credit for your previous guilty plea.

“You have pleaded guilty and did drop the bags and did not make off with the items so this offence can be served by a community level penalty.”

The judge ordered Smith 80 hours of unpaid work, she must also pay a victim surcharge of £95 and court costs of £85.

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