A shoplifter who stole more than �500 worth of cosmetics to buy presents for her daughter has been given 100 hours of community service.

Unemployed Sandra Parczewska, 24, took the items with a friend in the hope of selling them to pay for her expenses during the Christmas break.

Parczewska, of High Road, Chadwell Heath, was arrested with her lodger Damian Rajter after being caught placing the goods in her bag at a Tesco store on December 20.

The pair were sentenced to complete 100 hours of community service and ordered to pay �50 costs each, after they admitted theft at Redbridge Magistrates’ Court.

Justice of the Peace J Boughton told them: “The bench says this is joint enterprise, so you’re both equally culpable and your punishment should reflect this.

“These are goods of a high order. We’re talking about almost �600.

“I am sure your daughter would not have wanted you to do it – your daughter wants your love and your support.”

The single mother previously made greeting cards but is now on benefits, the court was told.

Parczewska went to Tesco Roneo Corner in Romford in an attempt to raise money for her three-year-old daughter for Christmas, the court heard.

Speaking through a Polish interpreter, she told the court: “I’ve got a young daughter.

“Because of Christmas coming, I thought I’d be able to get some money and sell them and also give some of the money to my family as Christmas presents. I’m very sorry.”

Rajter, a painter and decorator, accompanied her to help.

Also speaking via the interpreter, he told the court: “I don’t really know what came over me. I went to the store – I went to help.

“I’ve never done it before and never ever going to do it again.”

A total of �544 of cosmetics were recovered and the pair have apologised, the court was told on January 5.

Mr Boughton added: “You both have skills to offer. Therefore we hope you will repay the community with your painting and your skills in making things.”