A SHOPLIFTER was left in low spirits after stealing a bottle of vodka and officers were quick to act.

Shortly before 9.30am yesterday (Thursday, March 30), Northumbria Police received a report that a woman had stolen a bottle of alcohol from a supermarket in Hexham before fleeing quickly from the scene.

Within minutes, the woman’s whereabouts were tracked as she drove not far from the supermarket, with officers hot on her heels to arrest the 59-year-old.

However, when they arrived, officers carried out quick time checks into the woman, discovering she also was disqualified from driving and not in possession of insurance for the vehicle.

Subsequently, the 59-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of theft.

Only 12 hours later she was charged with shoplifting, driving whilst disqualified, and driving with no insurance. She is due to appear before the courts next month.

Rural inspector Joe Rutherford, of Northumbria Police, praised the quick response from officers.

He said: "This was a fantastic and swift response from officers who uncovered a slew of offences through their vigilance.

“Not only has the woman now been charged with the original offence, but two other driving offences which may have put other motorists at risk.

“To have a suspect arrested and charged within such a short timeframe is an excellent outcome and reinforces our commitment to bringing effective justice against those who break the law.

"We will continue to do all we can to make sure our roads are as safe as possible for all road users and our communities safe for all those living there. This is a clear message that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.”

If you see suspicious behaviour, always report it to police via the 'Tell Us Something' page of the police website or call 101. In an emergency or if a crime is happening, ring 999.