A WOMAN has been spared an immediate jail term after she claimed more than £12,000 in benefits she was not entitled.

The conviction followed an investigation by Wiltshire Council, which revealed Pauline Garside, 57, from Dogridge, Purton, received the cash when she failed to declare she received a regular income from a married man with whom she was in a relationship.

Deposits were made by him through an undeclared bank account, in her name, to cover her living expenses.

He had also purchased a property in France for her, which she failed to declare.

The investigation also showed that Garside received a significant settlement from his estate after his death when she took legal action.

Garside pleaded guilty to two charges of dishonestly failing to declare changes in circumstances when she appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court.

She was sentenced on July 6 to eight weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months, a victim surcharge of £80 and costs of £350 payable within 28 days.

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said after the hearing: “It is always the responsibility of the person claiming benefit to tell the council of any changes in circumstances which may affect their entitlement.

“If there is any doubt, then the revenues and benefits team will be happy to discuss any issues.

“Please contact 0300 456 0110 to report any changes in circumstances or ask for advice.

“The council is very keen to stamp out fraud and will take action against those found to be cheating the system.

“If you have any information that can help catch a cheat, call Wiltshire Council’s confidential hotline on 01249 706256.”

Fraud can also be reported on the council’s website at pages.wiltshire.gov.uk/reportbenefitfraudform.htm