The actions of a total stranger who got into her house when she was out left the owner facing a scene of “utter devastation” when she returned, Truro magistrates heard.

Neighbours had seen a woman with a dog go towards the property and then walk inside.

What she did included ripping off the kitchen worktop, destroying ovens, emptying cupboards and strewing contents everywhere, breaking the glass in a fireplace in the lounge, destroying leather cushions and photographs; smashing a shower cubicle; and pulling about clothing and bedding in a bedroom.

Denise Bicknell, 51, of Wheal Rose, Porthleven, was still left searching for an explanation of what she had done, her solicitor Neil Lewin said.

She pleaded guilty to criminal damage at the house on April 5. She had previous convictions.

The owner had been left feeling violated and dirty after what she discovered at her home, Alison May, for the CPS, said.

Mr Lewin said Bicknell was absolutely shocked to hear what she had done. She was surprised to hear the extent of the damage and could not remember doing it.

She suffered from post traumatic stress disorder, resulting from an earlier abusive relationship, and had long-term problems with substances and alcohol, more recently with alcohol and had taken to binge drinking which she had done at the time of the offence.

The case was adjourned until May 5 for reports.