A WEST Dorset woman has been jailed for stealing more than £27,000 from a children's charity and spending it on online gambling within the space of eight days.

Zaena Barnard, 49, from Lyme Regis, was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment at Bristol Crown Court after admitting the theft from Felix Road Adventure Playground.

Barnard was an employee at the Bristol-based charity. She was given access to the charity's accounts in August and within days, withdrew £27,500 and spent it all on gambling websites in the space of eight days.

Barnard spent £18,700 during the course of just one morning.

Investigating officer Det Con Garry Thatcher, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: “Zaena Barnard fully admitted stealing the money and handed herself into police after informing her managers about what she’d done.

“She’s shown a great deal of remorse throughout the investigation but the full impact of this theft on the charity and the local community may not be known for some time.

“The adventure playground is a lifeline for families in the Easton community and Barnard’s actions left the charity in a vulnerable position. She was in a position of responsibility and she breached the trust of those she worked with.

“This case highlights the addictive nature of gambling websites and the speed with which users can find themselves in deep financial trouble.”

Felix Road Adventure Playground said its future is secure despite the financial loss, but was 'shocked and saddened' by the theft.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "Felix Road Adventure Playground are shocked and saddened by the theft and the court proceedings.

“We have been heartened by the understanding and support of our funders at this difficult time, so our future is secure, but a financial hole remains that we need help in filling.”

GamCare is a national charity that supports and advises people affected by gambling.

It provides confidential advice, information and emotional support for anyone experiencing problems with gambling. Free of charge counselling services are available nationwide.

Stella Dalton, head of education and prevention at GamCare, said: “Often, when people think about problem gambling, they think about the loss of money and debt.

“Problem gambling can negatively affect many aspects of life; relationships with friends and family, health, work, education, the amount of time you have available to do other things.

“If you recognise that gambling is affecting any of these areas of your life, you are not alone and the UK charity GamCare can help you.”

For more information on GamCare, please call 0808 8020133 or visit gamcare.org.uk