A UK woman who served a brief term as Carlisle Mayor in the 1990's, will now be serving a different kind of term.  Jayne Yeomans was sentenced to 12 months jail time last week after stealing almost £40,000 from Carlisle South End Constitutional club to pay off online gambling debts. 

According to court reports, the former politician stole the money from the club, whose finances she once handled, after she became addicted to gambling in the summer of 2007.  She also forged her husband's signature in an effort to increase the mortgage on her family's home. 

Her exploits were revealed when a club secretary noticed inconsistencies in bookkeeping.  Upon discovery, 49-year-old Yeomans attempted suicide via overdose. 

At trial, it was Yeoman's character references and conduct outside of her addiction that shielded her from a heftier sentence.  Said Judge Paul Batty QC; "I have in mind your years of fine public service to this city, your charitable works and fine testimonials on your behalf."