Ex-teacher Gwawr Ceiriog took theatre trip money, court told
A former teacher has admitted taking £1,400 intended to take children from a theatre group on a trip.
Gwawr Ceiriog also kept cash given to her for hooded tops at Shine Musical Theatre in Denbigh where she worked.
The 50-year-old former deputy head of drama at Denbigh High School pleaded guilty to fraud.
Prestatyn magistrates heard Ceiriog, who is from the town, was trying to help a family member pay a fine.
The court heard Ceiriog had taken the money belonging to Lowri Wynne, the owner of the theatre group, on 26 April.
Prosecutor Nia Lloyd read a victim impact statement from Mrs Wynne in which she said she felt partly responsible for letting the children down because she had appointed the defendant.
"Apart from family bereavements this is the worst experience in my life," Mrs Wynne added.
Roger Thomas, defending, said his client realised she had let people down, and that she would no longer be able to work in the field which she so enjoyed.
The court heard that as well as trying to help a family member pay a fine, she also owed over £2,000 in rent.
She "borrowed" the money in the hope of repaying it, said Mr Thomas.
Ceiriog was given a conditional discharge for two years and ordered to pay Mrs Wynne £1,400 in compensation. She was also ordered to pay costs of £100.