A HEROIN addict mother of-three from Droitwich has escaped a prison sentence after making good progress in trying to kick her heroin addiction.

Worcester Magistrates Court chose to show leniency because Eliza Pullen, from Sheldon Close, has been doing well with her drug treatment order.

Yesterday Pullen admitted trying to steal groceries valued at £91.09 from Kwik Save, in Droitwich, on Monday, September 15.

Just three days before the attempted theft, on Friday September 12, the 33-year-old had her sentence, for stealing money and a mobile phone, deferred until Friday, December 5.

Barry Newton, defending, said Pullen had three children, aged five, 12 and 15 years, and if she went to jail she would lose them.

"This is not an offender who has committed these offences out of greed," said Mr Newton.

"This is an offender who commits them out of desperation."

Mr Newton said his client had been complying with her treatment order and had attended the required meetings.

Richard Schwab, from the probation service, confirmed officers were happy with Pullen's progress.

"The overall impression is that the officer has said that Eliza is a woman who is making progress with the order on which she has been placed," he said.

Chairman of the magistrates Joan Needham said Pullen was very close to being taking into custody.

"We understand from probation services that you have made considerable progress.

"Therefore we do not intend to sentence you today but we will allow the deferred sentence to run its course until December 5.

"This really is your last chance," she said.