A BOLTON woman who stole benefit books at a Leyland Post Office where she worked has walked free from court. She appeared with a colleague who also walked free from Preston Crown Court.

The court heard that thousands of pounds were obtained as a result of their crimes. The offences were discovered when the Hough Lane Post Office was the subject of an inquiry because so many benefit books had been reported lost.

Joan Heartfield, aged 34, of Crompton Way, Bolton, had admitted two charges of theft. She was ordered to do 120 hours community work.

Dorothea Jones, aged 54, of Pintail Close, Leyland, had admitted three forgeries and one offence of theft. She was sentenced to nine months prison, suspended for a year.

Neither of the women had any previous convictions. The total loss accumulated by Jones's actions was more than £3,000 and, in Heartfield's case, more than £1,000.

The court heard that the pair stole benefit books and later cashed dockets, but defence lawyers said there had not been a conspiracy.

Russell Davies, for Heartfield, said she had not benefited by one penny. The money had been given away to tramps and charity workers. Both women were described as having been under pressure and were having difficulties at the time.

Judge David Boulton said that in each case there had been a serious breach of trust.