The ex-stewardess of Markham Miners Welfare Club has admitted to stealing almost £30,000 from her former employer.
Tara Stevens, 30, of Monmouth Walk, Markham, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday, November 24 and admitted fraud.
The court was told how Stevens, a mother to a four-year-old son, stole from the club and spent the money on online gambling and shopping. During a 14-month period, she stole £28,000.
She was eventually found out when the club’s committee noticed discrepancies in the accounts and she was sacked.
A police investigation revealed that large sums of cash were deposited in Stevens’ personal bank account usually on a Monday or a Tuesday.
Defending Stevens, her barrister said she was remorseful and sorry over the theft.
Judge Neil Bidder QC said Stevens’ actions had been catastrophic for the club and a serious breach of trust.
Stevens was handed a 12-month sentence, suspended for 24 months, as well as ordered to carry out 220 hours of unpaid work.
The judge said Stevens’ young son had been a mitigating factor for not jailing her.