A DRUG courier found guilty of sneaking drugs into HMP Risley failed to appear for her sentencing after being admitted to hospital this morning.

Katie Wilkinson, of Spring Gardens, Atherton, was due to be sentenced this morning, Tuesday, at Liverpool Crown Court for two counts of conveying a prohibited article into HMP Risley, namely cocaine and cannabis resin.

As well as for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine.

However, her defence barrister Mr Shanks explained to honour judge Flewitt, who was set to pass sentencing, that the 38-year-old defendant had been taken to Bolton Infirmary earlier that morning, after having had spells of “passing out”.

“This morning, she passed out again, so her friend thought it was necessary for her to be taken to hospital.

“She is conscious and is waiting to be seen in hospital,” he said.

Discussing the sentencing, prosecutor in the case Chris Hopkins said: “The crown would subject that it is almost inevitable that a custodial sentence be given.”

Due to the absence of Wilkinson, the judge concluded that the case be adjourned to take place on November 26 instead.

“I am unlikely to be quite as sympathetic next time,” he said, addressing Mr Shanks.