A WOMAN has been fined after she was caught performing a sex act on herself in Northwich.

Beverley Dean, of no fixed abode, was spotted by several members of the public as she sat on a bench by Waitrose in the town centre.

The outrageous incident took place on February 25 this year as Dean sat on the bench overlooking the town’s marina.

The 54-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to committing an act of outraging public decency and was back at Chester Magistrates Court on Friday, August 12, to be sentenced.

Northwich Guardian: Dean was sentenced at Chester Magistrates CourtDean was sentenced at Chester Magistrates Court

As well as masturbating in public, Dean also had her breasts exposed.

When police were called, they arrived at the scene and following a search, found sex toys in Dean’s handbag.

Sentencing her, District Judge Nicholas Sanders told her she must pay a fine of £200 and serve a 12-month community order.

The court heard Dean was full of remorse following the incident and is now looking to put the matter behind her.

As part of the community order, she will work with the probation service and participate in up to 30 days of a rehabilitative appointments in a bid to understand why she carried out the act.

Dean was also told to pay £85 in prosecution costs and a £95 surcharge to help fund victim services.