MOTHER-of-four Kay Pugh stole the wallet of one of her drinking partners while waiting to be served at an Indian takeaway, magistrates in Devizes were told this week.

Pugh, 29, of Newby Acre, Marlborough, pleaded guilty before Kennet magistrates on Monday to stealing the wallet, containing £45 cash, from Paul Hanson as they and her partner sat in the takeaway restaurant on the evening of September 1.

Anna Humphreys, prosecuting, told the court that Pugh and her partner, who has pleaded not guilty to a similar charge, met up with Mr Hanson and the three went to the restaurant to order a takeaway meal.

While they were waiting, Mr Hanson left the room and during the time he was away restaurant staff saw Pugh take Mr Hanson's wallet out of his coat, remove the cash and hand it to her partner.

The wallet was later recovered from the U-bend of the restaurant's toilet.

Andrew Eddy, defending, said Pugh had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and, in interview with police officers, had made full and frank admissions.

He said that they had all been out drinking and were the worse for wear and that Pugh was on medication for depression and had suffered family problems.

Pugh was ordered to pay £15 compensation to Mr Hanson for the damaged wallet and £15 to the restaurant for meals that had to be thrown away after the couple were arrested. She was also fined £20.