A Carlisle woman who stole thousands of pounds from a charity was warned she receive a prison sentence.

Judith Thom had pleaded not guilty to the theft of £5,631 when she appeared at Carlisle Crown Court in May this year. She had been due to stand trial before a jury as a result.

But today 41-year-old Thom appeared in court again and admitted the offence. This, Judge Peter Davies heard, involved the theft of cash which belonged to the Forces Support Charity.

This was taken between March 12 and April 9 last year. It is said she did so having held a position of trust at a base of the charity in Carlisle.

According to its official website, the good cause "exists to relieve need, suffering and distress amongst the Armed Forces, veterans and their families in order to support their independence and dignity."

Thom was represented in court today by barrister Greg Hoare, who confirmed that she was a lady of previous good character. She had not submitted any specific basis for her guilty plea.

Mr Hoare said medical evidence would be obtained from her doctor for the sentencing hearing, and added: "There are some concerns about the fragility of her mental health."

The case was adjourned for the preparation of background information, including input from the probation service with whom Thom, previously of Pennine Way, Harraby, Carlisle, must co-operate in the meantime.

She was granted bail until October 20, when she will receive her punishment at the crown court.

"It may be custody, it may not," Judge Davies told her. "All options are open."