Bikini wax criminal sentenced

A customer who refused to pay for a bikini wax has walked free from court. Erin Ferguson, 20, admitted making off without payment for the £41 service at Essential Beauty in High Street. But she had a close shave after she missed a court hearing and a warrant was issued for her arrest - which led her to spend two nights behind bars.

At Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday Judge Anthony Niblett said he hoped she had learnt a "painful" lesson. The court heard Ferguson, of Woodwards, Broadfield, had the hair removal treatment on November 14 2007. But afterwards claimed she had left her purse in her car and could not pay the bill. Gabby Henty, prosecuting, said: "She said she would go and get the money and ran out of the salon. There was no suggestion she was not satisfied with the treatment."



Ferguson, who had booked the treatment with a false name and address, left her handbag behind and the salon owner found details of her real name in the bag. She had been a previous customer and the salon had a record of her address. Henty said when she was interviewed by police Ferguson said she was not satisfied with the treatment and made it clear to the owner she would not pay. But the prosecution did not accept Ferguson's claim she had complained.

George Hepburne-Scott, defending, said: "She says the treatment was poor which led to her making off. She is very sorry. It was a very stupid thing to do." Judge Niblett imposed a 12-month conditional discharge. She was ordered to pay £41 compensation and £100 court costs. He said: "She looks a chastened young woman and I hope she has learnt a painful and salutary lesson."