Woman stole cash to save marriage

Debra Stanger abused her position at Christ Church, Gateshead

A treasurer stole nearly £12,000 from church funds to try to "win back" the love of her unfaithful husband, a court has heard.

Debra Stanger, a treasurer at Christ Church in Felling, Gateshead, bought her husband expensive presents after finding out he was cheating on her.

The 44-year-old of Glynfellis, Felling, admitted fraud by abuse of position.

Stanger, who had held the church role for two years, will be sentenced on 12 May at Gateshead Magistrates' Court.

The hearing heard how Stanger also used the money, earmarked to pay church bills, to pay her mortgage.

The court was told that the couple's marriage had been shaken by her husband's affair, and she hoped she would be able to save their relationship with money.

Stanger, who inherited the treasurer's role from her father, used blank cheques given to her by the vicar to steal £11,845 in 15 months.

A statement issued on behalf of the Bishop of Durham, the Reverend Tom Wright, said the circumstances of the case would be reviewed by the church.

It said: "The Bishop of Durham is aware of the situation. He is saddened by the circumstances and the breach of trust involved.

"The Parish ministers and people are in his prayers at this time.

"The church expects the highest standards of honesty and will be examining the way safeguards can be reviewed."