A DRUG addict who tried to snatch a handbag from an 80-year-old woman was taking four or five bags of heroin a day at the time, a court has heard.

Laura Dorling, 30, of Hillrise, Galmpton, admitted one count of robbery and one of burglary when she appeared at Exeter Crown Court yesterday. Prosecutor Chris Bennett said the robbery happened on August 16 when the 80-year-old victim was crossing Belgrave Road, Torquay.

Dorling tried to snatch her handbag, but the woman managed to fight her off long enough for a man to come to her aid.

The victim suffered bruising and in a statement said she was now too nervous to take her regular walk to the seafront.

Mr Bennett said Dorling was taking heroin and valium at the time of the incident.

He said when she was interviewed by police she admitted taking 150milligrammes of valium and four to five bags of heroin a day.

In mitigation Kevin Hopper said his client was now turning her life around and getting the better of her drug habit.

Dorling also admitted a burglary at a property on Hele Road on August 19.

Judge Graham Cottle adjourned the case for reports, but warned the defendant she faced a possible custodial sentence. Dorling was granted conditional bail and will appear again at the crown court on a date yet to be fixed.