Angela Sturch, 33, of Melbourne Road, Eastbourne, stole two watches from Next in the Arndale Centre, the latest in a string of offences this year alone.

Sturch pleaded guilty when appearing in front of the town's magistrates on Wednesday.

Helen Constantinou, prosecuting, said, "This was an unsophisticated attempt at theft.

"She was observed by a member of the public taking two watches and walking out with no attempt to pay for them.

"The member of the public informed shop staff, who followed her into the Arndale Centre. She was stopped and a minor struggle ensued.
"As she was brought back into the store, she dropped one of the watches on the ground."

The court heard Sturch had numerous previous offences and already this year has served time in prison and been convicted of theft, drug offences, failing to surrender and breach of a suspended sentence.

Christos Christou, defending, said Sturch had kicked a previous drug habit and was currently 'clean'.

He added, "She was needing money for food. She is currently on jobseekers' allowance but this is not enough for food and her living needs.

"At the moment offending seems to be entrenched in her psyche."
Magistrates adjourned the case for pre-sentencing reports, but left all options open, including the possibility of a further spell in jail for the breach of the conditional discharge.

Sturch was released on bail but was ordered not to enter the Arndale Centre or Terminus Road.

She will appear in court again on May 29 for sentencing.