Emma Skingle, of Evenlode Close, was sentenced at Aylesbury Magistrates' Court on July 18 having pleaded guilty to defrauding the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and AVDC. She was given a 12 week sentence suspended for 12 months and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work in the community.

Miss Skingle claimed housing and council tax benefits on the basis that she was single and receiving income support. However, she failed to notify the authorities when her partner, who was in paid employment, moved into her home.

The overpayments of housing and council tax benefits were £6,906.37 and £1,332.94 respectively with £15,056.98 paid out in income support payments.

Cllr John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: "This case really brings home the fact that residents receiving benefits absolutely must inform us of any change in their circumstances. The system is there to help people, but the rules are very clear and the penalties can be severe if these are ignored. We will have no hesitation in taking action against anyone committing benefit fraud."

Anti-Fraud Minister James Plaskitt said: "DWP, in partnership with local authorities, is taking action against more fraudsters than ever before. Closer working with our partners means that we know where and when people try to commit benefit fraud."

AVDC and the DWP investigate all types of benefit fraud, both individually and in partnership. They welcome reports of suspected fraud, and all calls are treated in confidence.

To report a suspected fraud, call either the council's benefit cheat hotline number on 01296 585570 or the National Fraud Hotline on 0800 854 440.