A shoplifting mum has been jailed and banned from four supermarkets following a prolific thieving spree.

Billie-Jo Darling was handed a new-style Asbo - known as a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) - after admitting 11 offences in Canterbury.

The 30-year-old targeted four supermarkets, stealing more than £1,000 worth of alcohol and groceries in just three weeks, from December 27 last year.

She also stole from the B&M Home Store in Marshwood Close last spring.

Her offending has now landed her behind bars, with Folkestone magistrates this week jailing her for 120 days.

She was also hit with the CBO, banning her from entering Asda and Aldi in Sturry Road, Sainsbury's in Old Dover Road, and M&S on the Maybrook Retail Park.

The order runs until January 31 next year.

Should she breach it, she could be brought back before the court and further sentenced.

Canterbury police officer Sgt John Woodward said: "My officers are determined to protect businesses in Canterbury from the attentions of repeat offenders like Billie-Jo Darling.

"I am pleased that the thorough investigation we carried out has illustrated to the court the number of offences she had committed and the necessity of this CBO.

"The message to shoplifters is clear - Kent Police will gather the evidence needed to bring you to justice, and use every option open to us to protect businesses and their staff."