A 50-YEAR-OLD woman continued to claim single parent benefits after her three children had left home.

Blackburn magistrates heard in a seven month period, Susan Marsden received an overpayment of over £9,000 in income support, tax credits, disability living allowance and carers allowance.

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Marsden, of Blackpool Street, Church, pleaded guilty to three charges of failing to notify a change of circumstances and one of being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent payment of tax credits. She was remanded on bail for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said initially the claim for four different benefits for herself and three children had been a genuine one.

“For various reasons her children all ceased to be part of her household and she failed to report this to the authorities,” said Miss Akhtar.

Imran Hussain, defending, said it was not a case where the defendant had been living a lavish lifestyle.

“In fact, much of the money was actually given to her daughters when they came visiting,” said Mr Hussain.

“Arrangements have been made for the repayment of the money.”

Speaking after the hearing a spokeswoman for the Department for Work and Pensions said their officers were committed to catching people who have been cheating the system.

She said: “Benefit fraud is a crime and we are dedicated to catching those who commit it. Only a small minority of benefit claimants are dishonest, but cases like this cost the taxpayer money that should be used to help those in need.

“We are determined to find those who we suspect are cheating the system by following up on tip-offs, undertaking surveillance and working with local councils.

“If you suspect someone of benefit fraud, please call the Benefit Fraud Hotline so we can continue to tackle the problem in your area.”

Anybody with information should call the DWP on on 0800 854440.