Woman given suspended prison sentence over £800 unpaid fines

Wigan justices heard Sharon Ledwith, 39, owed £882 for several fines, which had been consolidated, for convictions dating back to 2016. She agreed to pay £20 per month when in court last September and did make two payments, but nothing more. She was subject to a 34-day suspended prison term for non-payment, the court was told.

Melissa Fagan, defending, said Ledwith believed the cash was being deducted directly from benefits and had a universal credit journal stating the fine was being paid after a request from the court.

Ledwith, of Cameron Street, Leigh, offered to pay £60 in arrears and resume payments of £20 per month. The court heard deductions were actually being made from her benefits for a different fine, which have now been put on hold so she can focus on paying the older bill.