A KIDDERMINSTER man who fraudulently claimed almost £7,000 in benefits has been given a 150-hour community punishment order.

Michael Young, of Coronation Way, Kidderminster pleaded guilty at the town's magistrates' court to two offences of making false representations.

The court heard that Young claimed benefits and jobseekers' allowance while working. As a result, between April, 2001 and May, 2003 he was overpaid £1,251.59 in housing and council tax benefit and £5,667.68 income support.

The case on Tuesday last week, followed an investigation by Wyre Forest District Council and the Department of Work and Pensions.

Magistrates also ordered Young to pay £75 costs.

Councillor John Campion, Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet member for finance and corporate affairs, said: "The council is fully committed to cracking down on benefit fraud.

"It affects everyone in the community, taking money away from those people who are entitled to it and whose wellbeing may depend on it.

"This joint investigation marks the success of the co-operation between Wyre Forest District Council and the Department of Work and Pensions fraud teams and demonstrates the joined-up approach we are taking to catch these criminals," Councillor Campion added.