A man who inherired more than £60,000, had 11 bank accounts and his own business illegally claimed benefits, a court heard yesterday.

Terrence Hewlett, 60, of Kington Langley, appeared before magistrates in Chippenham and admitted three charges of failing to notify changes of circumstances in relation to his claims for income support, housing benefit and council tax benefit.

An investigation by officers from North Wiltshire District Council and Jobcentre Plus revealed that Hewlett had been running a photography business.

It was also discovered he had inherited about £63,000.

His bank account details were examined and it was discovered he has 11 other accounts, which he had not declared when claiming benefit.

Hewlett, who is in ill-health, defended himself in court and read from a pre-prepared statement.

He told magistrates he was now in debt after his wife's business had run into trouble and he had given her the inheritance money to take court action against another company and pay debts.

He also said his photography business had struggled for three years.

Magistrates asked for probation reports to be compiled and Hewlett will be sentenced on March 5.

The combined benefits overpaid to Hewlett totalled £9571.67, which he has to repay to the council and Jobcentre Plus.