A woman has been jailed for eight months for stealing blocks of cheese.

Emma Sabine, 28, stole blocks of cheese, make-up and clothes worth more than £1,000 from locations in Hastings between December last year and earlier this month.

Sabine, of Holmsdale Gardens, Hastings, appeared at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Monday and pleaded guilty to five counts of theft. She was jailed for eight months.

Inspector Chris Veale said: "This sentencing sends out a strong message that persistent shoplifters will be prosecuted.

"It is encouraging news for retailers and local residents that persistent shoplifting can result in custodial sentences."