AN UNEMPLOYED hairdresser with alcoholism and mental health problems stole 'meal deal' items from a Tesco Express store, an Isle of Wight court was told.

Kerry Tarran, of Spring Hill, Ventnor, admitted shoplifting on August 8.

At around 1.45pm that day, Tarran went into the Tesco Express store in High Street, Ventnor, and selected wine and multiple 'meal deal' items.

A supervisor was told Tarran, 41, was acting suspiciously before Tarran attempted to leave the store without paying.

The supervisor managed to retrieve the wine from Tarran, but she made off with £30 worth of 'meal deal' goods, said Liz Miller, prosecuting, at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court.

Tarran last committed shoplifting in 2009.

For Tarran, Michael McGoldrick said his client showed her willingness to engage in the court process by attending, despite being injured in an attack shortly before the hearing.

Tarran has mental health problems and an alcohol addiction, which underpinned her behaviour on the day in question, Mr McGoldrick explained.

"She drinks on a daily basis and has sought Inclusion (help) to tackle the problem," the solicitor added.

Tarran was handed a six-month conditional discharge, with £40 costs, a £26 surcharge and an order to pay Tesco £30 compensation.