A CLEANER at a Colchester gym broke into lockers and swiped clothes, trainers, protein shakers and earphones.

Rachel Smith, 36, of Chariot Drive, Colchester, had only been working at The Gym for amonth when she went on the one-night theft spree.

She was given a door code so she could clean late at night.

Smith also had permission to break open lockers if people had forgotten to clear them out, putting the gear inside into lost property.

But on February 2 she cleared out the lockers and left with a large bag of gym gear.

Smith also pinched a kettle and several rolls of toilet roll.

She was caught by CCTV cameras at the Queen Street gym and the manager reported it to police.

Officers arrested Smith, who was charged with nine counts of theft.

She appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court and admitted the thefts.

Lesla Small, prosecuting, said: “The manager was able to hand over footage to police that clearly showed her movements on that night.

“It is a clear breach of trust.”

Kate Armstrong, mitigating, said Smith struggles with mental health issues and was currently struggling with a number of diferent issues.

She said: “It is not a defence, but she was going through a difficult time. She accepts she has committed these offences and has been tearful when I have spoken to her. She is remorseful.”

Smith was given a six month community order.

She will have to attend 15 hours of rehabilitation.

She was fined £50, as well as having to pay compensation to the victims adding up to £188.

A £60 victim surcharge was also added.