IPSWICH: A drug-addicted mother of two is today awaiting sentence after she admitted going on a week-long shoplifting spree.

Esther Snell began amassing her �1,500 haul the day she was released from jail on July 31.

On Friday, South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court heard how Snell, of Shackleton Square, Ipswich, stole from shops on 11 occasions in seven days.

The 34-year-old, who has been to prison four times this year, was spotted taking bottles of alcohol, raw meat and toiletries from shops she had already been banned from.

On August 2, she and an accomplice filled a trolley with �300 of goods at Sainsbury’s before walking out and loading the stolen items into a waiting taxi.

Later the same day, she bagged nearly �30 of stock from the Co-op in Hines Road.

Prosecutors labelled Snell a “prolific, high-profile offender” who has so far clocked up 53 convictions for 151 offences, including 108 thefts.

Shelley Lapatrie, mitigating, told magistrates Snell had a �60-a-day drug habit, adding: “At first blush it’s not looking good for her.

“She’s stuck in a circle of being in and out of prison.

“I’m not suggesting there is a miracle cure and that Miss Snell is going to turn into a law-abiding citizen overnight. But she believes she is ready to take the advice and help on offer to her.”

Snell was remanded in custody until a later date for pre-sentence reports to be prepared.