A WOMAN who stole fruit juice from a Hereford supermarket has been left "highly embarrassed" by her actions.

Audrey Poole went into Tesco in Bewell Street, Hereford on March 9 with the intention of buying the goods for her sister who was in intensive care, magistrates were told.

But security staff spotted the 71-year-old putting the three bottles in her handbag, before paying for other items.

Prosecutor Leslie Ashton said the theft put her in breach of a conditional discharge for stealing a chicken, also from Tesco.

Poole, of Ledbury Road, Hereford, admitted a charge of theft.

Marilena Divitantonio, defending, said Poole doesn't understand why she didn't pay for the goods.

"She had the money with her and went to the store with the intention to pay," she said. "She doesn't steal out of need. She's remorseful and highly embarrassed."

The court also heard she suffers with anxiety.

She was given a nine-month community order, including a 15-day rehabilitation requirement. She was fined £50, and ordered to pay £135 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.