A WOMAN who claimed over £7,300 in benefits while working in a bridal shop has been ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.
Georgina Hyde, of Longdon Close, pleaded guilty to falsely claiming Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit at Redditch Magistrates’ Court last Friday (July 25).
The 64-year-old claimed £7,305.69 in benefits between July 2010 and September 2013 despite working as a sales assistant.
Hyde already had a previous conviction for benefit fraud the court heard.
She was given a 12 month community order and also told to pay £85 towards the prosecution costs and a £60 victim surcharge.
The overpaid benefits will be recovered by Redditch Borough Council through their own methods.
A council spokeswoman said the case again demonstrated the importance of declaring true circumstances when claiming benefits and reporting any changes as they took place. She added failure to do so could lead to a criminal record and impact on future claims.
To report a suspicion of benefit fraud email as much detail as possible to [email protected] or call 01527 534011.
