A west Cumbrian mother who admitted cruelty towards her children was told she could receive a prison sentence.

The woman, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the youngsters, was given the warning at Carlisle Crown Court today.

This came from Judge Peter Davies after she entered guilty pleas to three counts of cruelty to a person aged under 16.

These relate to a number of children, with the offences said to have been committed over a period covering several weeks in April and May this year.

No details about the crimes were given in open court.

However, the main "concerns" are said to "focus on the state and condition of the house".

Judge Davies adjourned the case until July 12 for the preparation of background information.

The woman, who has an address in the Workington area, was granted conditional bail until then.

But the judge warned her that all sentencing options, "including custody", would be open on that date.