A MOTHER organised a Christmas party night for other nursery group mums, but kept the money to help her own finances.
First offender Bryony Russell collected a deposit from several people, and arranged the Christmas party night at a local hotel, but failed to pay the bill.
Russell, 32, of Buccleuch Chase, St Boswells, admitted stealing £425 at her home between December 16, 2011 and March 22 this year.
“She began to organise a party night for the mothers of children who go to St Boswells nursery,” explained Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser, “and a deposit was paid to the accused. “The party night took place, but was not paid for, and the accused was approached and asked for the money.”
Mr Fraser said Russell had kept the money, claiming she was “incredibly short” at the time.
Defence solicitor Ross Dow said 19 people had attended the Christmas party and each had paid £26. He said: “Money was so tight for her at the time, that she took the easy way out, as she had bills to pay.This was not her intention at the outset.
“She is extremely sorry and is making efforts to pay the sums back.
“She has already paid £100 and is making monthly payments of £50,” he added.
Sheriff Kevin Drummond deferred sentence for eight months, until June 17 next year, for Russell to make restitution of the £425 she stole.