A COUNCIL is hoping that a successful prosecution against a man for benefit fraud will deter others.

Derwentside District Council took a man from the Consett area of County Durham to court for failing to declare that he had found a job while still claiming benefits.

The man received a 12-month conditional discharge and had to pay £250 costs as well as returning housing and council benefit money, which amounted to several hundred pounds.

A council spokesman said: "Benefit fraud costs the council a great deal of money and has an impact on all residents' council tax bills. Members of the public who have any information about anyone they suspect is illegally claiming benefits should contact the Revenue and Benefits Division on (01207) 218694. It is now council policy that we publicise all successful benefit fraud prosecutions.