BENEFIT cheats in the Richmondshire area have been given a stark warning by the local council's fraud officers.

Their caution comes after a number of successful prosecutions against fraudsters during the past 12 months.

There have been four cases leading to court, two of which resulted in convictions. The other two cases are still pending.

There have also been four formal cautions logged with police and three administrative penalties issued - an alternative to prosecution where the offender has to repay the original sum, as well as an extra 30 per cent.

The officer leading the anti-fraud initiative, Pat Wilson, said: "Fraud against the public purse is a very serious matter and the council is committed to prosecuting offenders and recovering fraudulently claimed benefits.

"These recent cases should act as a deterrent for others thinking about committing similar offences."

Anyone wishing to report benefit fraud is asked to call the confidential Fraud Hotline on 0800 243001.