Beggar banned from Weston

A heroin addict has been prevented from begging on the streets of Weston-super-Mare by an anti-social behaviour order (Asbo).

On Monday, police and the local council were granted the two-year Asbo on Sarah Wood by Weston Magistrates' Court.

The court heard that Ms Wood had regularly begged, shouted abuse and stolen from shops in the resort.

She admitted that she begged to support her heroin addiction, which cost about £80 a day.

A police spokesperson said: "I am really pleased the court decided to make the order.

"Clearly they are listening to local concerns.

"Police put many hours into getting the evidence necessary to obtain the order," he added.