Couple's pounds 1,000 jewellery scam; SHOPKEEPER TARGETED IN CON TRICK BY CUNNING PAIR.

Byline: GARRY WILLEY

A COUPLE stole almost pounds 1,000 of jewellery after tricking a shopkeeper. Norah Dillon and her then partner travelled from Tyneside to target Joyce Anderson at her store in Corbridge.

Dillon pretended to be interested in a gift to celebrate her daughter having a baby. But her partner had also sneaked into the shop, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

And while the owner was being distracted, he pocketed two gold charms and a bracelet from a display case, said John Brennan, prosecuting.

The pair fled after Dillon claimed she needed to call at a cashpoint before buying her gift.

The 45-year-old from Condercum Road, Benwell, Newcastle, was given a 26-week jail term suspended for 18 months after admitting theft.

Her more heavily convicted accomplice had already been given a 51-week suspended sentence at an earlier hearing. Judge Brian Forster told Dillon: "Planned offences involving tricking and stealing from shopkeepers will be regarded very seriously by this court.

"The offence was carried out in a cunning way and goods worth almost pounds 1,000 were taken."

Rachel Hedworth, defending, said Dillon's now ex-partner had been the domineering force.

"Since she has separated from him her life seems on track again," Miss Hedworth added.

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