Granny (68) stole from Boots and Debenhams in Whitewater Shopping Centre

A grandmother who stole goods worth €150 from Boots and Debenhams is still paying for her late husband's funeral, a court heard. Julie Ward (68) of Kilcronan View, Clondalkin in Dublin was charged with the thefts at the Whitewater Shopping Centre in Newbridge.

Naas District Court was told that Ms Ward's husband died three years ago but she's still paying off weekly installments of €120 for the cost.

Judge Desmond Zaidan heard that Ms Ward, who had no previous convictions, was very embarrassed to find herself in court at this stage of her life.

The defendant, who has five grandchildren, was on medication at the time of the incident, the court heard.

Judge Zaidan was told all the goods recovered were undamaged and were ready to be put back on shelves.

Ms Ward was given the Probation Act which means a conviction won't be recorded against her.