A Letchworth mum who used her son’s debit card to pay off court fines and buy flight tickets has been given a community sentence.

Jenny Cracknell, of North Fields, also made other purchases and cash withdrawals using the card in May and June this year.

The 43-year-old pleaded guilty to fraud when she appeared at St Albans Magistrates’ Court.

The court heard that she had embarked on the spree mere days after being convicted of stealing an £80 cheque and £75 in cash from two relatives.

Deputy District Judge Kate Tulk ordered her to pay £203.20 in compensation and to undergo six months of alcohol dependency treatment.

She must also pay an £85 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.