A shoplifter was given a fresh chance after a court heard that she was battling to end a criminal record of 123 offences.

The latest was clocked up after Angela Hopkins, 35, was caught stealing steak from the Aldi shop on the Castle Retail Park, city magistrates heard.

A six-month conditional discharge was given to Hopkins of Ewart Road, Nottingham, who admitted theft on December 11. JPs were told that the offence could have been handled when she was last in court.

Sarah Roberts, mitigating, said: "There was a time when she was at the magistrates' court on a fairly regular basis.

"But she has gone a long way to break what is fairly entrenched offending."

At the time, her benefits were being changed, added Miss Roberts.

Simon Rowe, prosecuting, said Hopkins had 122 previous offences on her record and had attended court 50 times before. But only two of the convictions were for theft.

The steak was recovered and sold. Mr Rowe added: "She was fully co-operative with the police. She is heavily convicted."

A prosecution costs claim for £85 was reduced to £20 by the magistrates.

Presiding JP David Shannon told her: "We have heard from your solicitor that you are breaking unhelpful habits."