A STEVENSTON woman has narrowly avoided jail after pleading guilty to stealing from a woman in her 90s.

Elaine Ann Scott, 43, of Darg Road was charged with stealing £20 and a set of bedding between April and September of this year.

Scott admitted the charge and was sentenced at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week.

Sheriff Watson said: “You pilfered from a person who was 91, almost blind.

"This is one of the meanest and lowest forms of theft. I wouldn’t be doing my duty if I did not consider prison.

"You are not fit to do unpaid work.

“What you need is punishment.

"By the skin of your teeth you will avoid prison.

"I will  sentence you to a restriction of liberty order as a direct alternative.” Scott was ordered to remain within her home between 6am and 6pm for the next two months and then between 6am and 8pm for two further months.

She has also been ordered to pay compensation of £100 to her victim.