conditional discharge for shoplifting offences.

Mother-of-three Teresa Duffy obviously needed treatment, Magistrate the Wor.

John Judge said this week.

Duffy, who admitted the theft charges, stole items from the Trimingham stores in Paget and Hamilton, Magistrates' Court heard.

Sgt. Earl Kirby, prosecuting, said Duffy was detained by the manager of the Paget store after triggering a security system.

Items taken from the stores included a tie, clothing, shortbread and chocolate, said Sgt. Kirby.

"The defendant is here on vacation and due to leave in two days time.'' Mr. Trevor Moniz, defending, said most of the stolen items, all of which had been recovered, were gifts for friends.

He said the offences were "entirely an aberration'', and his client was extremely remorseful and severely embarrassed.

Mr. Moniz said Duffy, widowed about three or four years ago, could offer no real explanation.

"I suggested she should seek help,'' he said.