A mother stole thousands from the elderly Black Country man she was supposed to be caring for over six years, a court heard.

Marlene Smith, aged 65, of Woodwards Place, Alumwell, Walsall, allowed Edward Ridley to rack up huge debts before his death, while she splashed out on caravan holidays to Wales.

The theft only came to light when Mr Ridley, who suffered from learning difficulties, died of natural causes aged 81 last year and social workers discovered that he still owed thousands of pounds on his utility bills.

Police grilled Smith about the discrepancy, as Mr Ridley, of Walsall, had received ample cash in benefits to support his outgoings.

Smith, who lives with her husband and adult son, admitted stealing around £55 a month during the six years she was Mr Ridley’s carer and had responsibility for his finances.

Smith admitted taking an estimated £3,690, but Roger Bleazard, prosecuting, told Walsall magistrates yesterday that the total was probably far greater.

She was bailed to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court for sentencing on March 30.

“Not only was Mr Ridley an elderly gent, he was extremely vulnerable,” Mr Bleazard said.

“Upon his death, social services found he had a number of debts that hadn’t been paid. They included water bills that ran into thousands of pounds and charges for home care of more than £5,000.

“Mr Ridley has sadly died, but would he have been able to get more enjoyment out of his life without this theft, or been able to access a better standard of care? We will never know.”

David Grice, defending, said the money had not been taken through a calculated scam, but Smith admitted that had kept cash left over after buying things for Mr Ridley.

“She certainly has not been spending this money on fast cars and higher living. Some of the money was used for caravan holidays in Wales,” he said.