MALVERN Hills District Council has successfully prosecuted two people in cases of benefit fraud.

Sean Casey, aged 29, of Church Road, Malvern, appeared before Worcester Magistrates Court on Wednesday, September 24, where he pleaded guilty to failing to report working while claiming benefit he was no longer entitled to.

He was charged with two offences under Section 112 of the Social Security Administration Act 1992, and ordered to repay the overpaid benefit of £1,200.

Mr Casey was further fined £120 on each offence and £200 costs were awarded to the council.

On the same day Samantha Arrowsmith, aged 37, of Russell Drive, Malvern, pleaded guilty to one charge of failing to report a change in circumstance.

She failed to inform the council she was no longer claiming income support, as she was a full time student.

Mrs Arrowsmith had been overpaid housing benefit of £1,488.66 and was given an 18 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay costs of £150 and repay the overpaid benefit.

"This successfully demonstrates the council's commitment to detecting and preventing fraud to protect the public purse," said Councillor Graham Myatt, portfolio holder for benefits.

"We actively encourage people to claim benefits when they genuinely are entitled to receive them, but would urge people who think they can get away with fraudulent claims to think twice.

"Those claiming benefits should inform the council whenever their circumstances change."