AN ALVECHURCH pensioner falsely claimed more than £26,000 in benefits.
Bernard Ferran, of Buckleys Green, pleaded guilty to fraudulently claiming housing benefit, council tax benefit and pension credit at Redditch Magistrates’ Court last Tuesday (September 16).
The 70-year-old failed to declare he was working as a bar steward for eight years and received £26,996.47 in benefits during that time.
He was given a 12-month community order with 140 hours of unpaid work and was also told to pay £100 costs and a victim surcharge of £60.
The overpaid benefits are being recovered by Bromsgrove District Council and the Department of Work and Pensions.
A spokeswoman for Bromsgrove District Council said the case again demonstrated the importance of declaring true
circumstances when claiming benefit and reporting any changes as they take place.
She added failure to do so may lead to a criminal record and could have an impact on future claims.
Anyone suspicious of benefit fraud can report it by calling the investigation team on 01527 881221.
