A WOMAN continued claiming benefits while being financially supported by her partner who worked full-time on construction sites.

Mother-of-four Gail Kelly was over-paid by more than £40,000 in income support, plus small amounts of council tax and housing benefit, over a four-year period.

Durham Crown Court heard that when claiming benefit she failed to notify that she was supported by her partner, who worked away from home for a construction company.

The court was told he earned about £44,000 a year, and it was agreed he provided financial support for Kelly and the family.

Kelly, 33, of Laurel Road, Ferryhill, admitted failure to notify a change in her circumstances, affecting her entitlement to income support, while being supported by her now former partner, between October 1, 2001, and November 2, 2005.

She admitted two similar offences relating to the other benefits.

Euan Duff, prosecuting, said: "It's a somewhat unusual case as her partner worked away from home throughout that period.

"But, he was home for periods on a regular basis, and she received financial support from him throughout that time."

Mr Duff said she has started making repayments for both the council tax and housing benefit she received.

Scott Smith, mitigating, who told the court the couple are no longer together, requested preparation of probation reports on Kelly prior to sentence.

Agreeing, Judge Guy Whitburn QC adjourned sentence for three weeks. But he told Kelly: "The sums here are substantial. It's clearly a level where custodial sentences are called for.

"Whether or not that is immediate on a guilty plea is something that will need to be addressed.

"You have taken in excess of £40,000 of public money over the course of three or more years.

"Despite your hitherto good character and the fact you have pleaded guilty, a custodial sentence may be seen as appropriate in this case."

Bailing Kelly, Judge Whitburn also agreed to Proceeds of Crime proceedings being taken against her, with a hearing date set for January 22.