Antrim Crown Court heard that over the space of 18 months from January 2004 until June 2005, 54-year-old Wyona Madden had been working for Charles Brolly as his book-keeper for JAB Enterprises.

She said the accountant uncovered that Madden, who was responsible for the wages and general book-keeping, had changed two figures in her own wages so that she was being paid extra and had written out three cheques to herself.

In total Madden, from Girona Drive in Portrush, pleaded guilty to nine charges of theft, one of obtaining money by deception and a further count of false accounting amounting to some #13,296 (pounds).

Defence lawyer Michael Campbell described Madden, who was part of the Coleraine DPP from 2003 until 2005, as a "community activist" who has worked with many local groups.

Judge Smyth told Madden that despite her clear record, "a custodial sentence would normally be imposed" because the case involved a "clear breach of trust".

The judge also ordered Madden to pay back £1,000.