A SHOPLIFTER breached the terms of a conditional discharge when she attempted to steal from a Hereford supermarket.

Wanda Maria Jones, 71, of Holme Lacy, admitted the theft when she appeared before magistrates in Hereford.

Prosecutor Nicola Ritchie told the court that Jones was detained by Asda security staff just before 3pm on October 14 after she was spotted putting eight items including rice and energy drinks into her shopping bag.

She then left the store without attempting to pay for the goods, worth a total of £13.67.

Jones admitted the the theft when police were called, and the goods were recovered.

In interview, Jones, who is already subject to a 12 month conditional discharge for a similar offence, said she had entered the store with no means to pay for the goods, and did not know why she had done it.

George Cousins, for Jones, said the recent death of her husband had badly affected her.

"Simply put, she did not spend a lot of time at school, and was very reliant on her husband before he died," Mr Cousins said.

"She is now being supported by her sister and I think there is some light at the end of the tunnel."

A mental health report carried out said Jones had been very low in mood at the time, but is now engaging with counselling services.

"Everything was getting on top of her, and she also has concerns about her memory," said liaison officer Jackie Elan.

Jones was fined £50 and must pay a £32 victim surcharge. Her conditional discharge will continue as before.