A WREXHAM mum who fraudulently used bank cards has been handed a fine by the court.

Shona Marsh, of Maelor Place in Ruabon, appeared before Mold Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday, October 26.

Marsh, 34, had previously, on June 29 at Mold Magistrates Court, pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud, one of criminal damage and one of failing to surrender.

Thomas McLoughlin, prosecuting, said that the fraud incidents took place on May 19 of last year.

That day the victim, Rachel Nickerson, had noticed that her vehicle had been broken into and that her purse had gone missing.

She later received texts from her bank regarding transactions which had taken place that morning, which she had not carried out herself.

It was later found that Marsh had spent a total sum of around £125 that morning using Ms Nicholson's card, before a final attempt to use the card was declined at 7.45am.

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The court heard that the criminal damage caused in this case related to Marsh's stay in custody on June 28.

She was said to have been eating breakfast in her cell when a 'heated conversation' led to her throwing porridge over her cell.

North Wales Police say the cell had to be 'professionally cleaned' as a result, at a cost of £36.

The failing to surrender charge related to Marsh not showing up for a court appearance in June.

Ryan Rothwell, defending, said that, at the time of the offending, mum-of-three Marsh was 'stealing to keep her (drug) habit alive' and was in an 'abusive relationship'.

He added that she was now in 'suitable' and 'stable' accommodation.

Recorder Simon Mills said: "You are a person that is getting to grips with the problems you have had in your life."

Marsh was sentenced to a community order for 18 months.

She will also have to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity requirements, participate in the 'Thinking Skills' programme and pay a fine of £50.

Recorder Mills added: "This is to help you get back on your feet, rather than add debts to you."