A 49-YEAR-OLD woman continued to claim benefits despite working at two nurseries.

Blackburn magistrates heard Karen Landon received a total overpayment of £2,198 during the six months she was working at Little Craft and Safe Hands nurseries.

Landon, of Mount Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of circumstances that affected her entitlement to job seekers’ allowance, housing, and council tax benefits.

She was given a conditional discharge for two years, and ordered to pay £100 costs.

Scott Parker, defending, said it had been a legitimate claim for benefits when Landon was unemployed.

“She was offered work, but the hours and wages varied from month to month,” said Mr Parker.

“Had she contacted the department, she may well have been eligible to keep some of her benefits.”