A MAN who defrauded a council out of almost £600 in housing benefit has been ordered to repay the cash.

David Jeffrey, 57, of Blake Road, Bicester, must pay back £597.23 to Cherwell District Council. He was also fined £100 and ordered to pay £100 court costs and a £15 victims’ surcharge.

Banbury Magistrates’ Court heard that Blake started work at Fresh Direct, Bicester, and stopped claiming jobseekers allowance, but continued to claim housing benefit.

Kieron Mallon, Cherwell’s executive member for communications, said: “Just because you have informed the Jobcentre that you have found work, it doesn’t mean all your benefits automatically stop. If your financial circumstances change, you still need to inform the council. The simple message is don’t bury your head in the sand as you could end up with some hefty fines and a criminal record.”

Anyone who suspects a benefits cheat can call 0800 716152.