A MAN from Faringdon has been ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work after pleading guilty to benefit fraud.

Lee Harrison, 33, of Walker Drive, appeared at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on July 7 for sentencing, after earlier admitting three counts of failing to give prompt notification in relation to his claims for housing and council tax benefits.

Between April 2012 and July 2013 Harrison had failed to tell Vale of White Horse District Council that his hours or employment and earnings had increased. As a result he claimed more than £8,000 in benefits that he wasn’t entitled to.

The benefit office notified the Investigation Team that a large overpayment had been created in respect of Mr Harrison’s claim for benefit. Harrison was sentenced to serve a 12-month community order, during which he will be required to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £220 towards the costs of the prosecution, along with a £60 victim surcharge, and will have to pay back all the money wrongly claimed.

People who suspect another of benefit fraud are asked to email fraud@southandvale.gov.uk or call 0800 1695716.