A HEALTHCARE manager pocketed thousands of pounds of cash at a top private hospital.

Patricia Fitzpatrick admitted embezzling the money while working as the business administration manager at BMI Healthcare's King's Park Hospital in Stirling.

The 21-bed private hospital, which treats a wide range of conditions, has two operating theatres, a treatment room and an imaging department providing X-ray and ultrasound.

Fitzpatrick, 50, of Whins of Milton, Stirling, pleaded guilty by letter at Stirling Sheriff Court.

The single charge against her reads that between September 13, 2012 and October 10, 2013 at King's Park Hospital, Stirling, while employed as business administration manager, she embezzled £4391.98. Depute Fiscal Lindsey Brooks, prosecuting, confirmed the letter pleading guilty had been received.

The court heard Fitzpatrick did not have a solicitor appearing for her.

Sheriff Wylie Robertson deferred sentence for background reports.