Benefit cheats in Bromsgrove are being warned to be on their guard as the district council, working with the Department of Work and Pensions, continues its hard-hitting campaign to catch the culprits.

The stark warning follows the latest prosecutions brought against two Bromsgrove residents for cheating the system.

Julie Carter, of Austin Road, Bromsgrove, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of circumstances while claiming housing and council tax benefit resulting in an overpayment of £1,403.58 between July and December 2004. Income support was also overpaid to the value of £2,596.07.

Redditch magistrates heard that the overpayments arose when Carter failed to report that her partner, Anthony Lott, had received a compensation payment.

Lott also pleaded guilty to failing to notify his change of circumstances by not reporting his compensation payment.

Both defendants were given a twelve-month conditional discharge and each ordered to pay £182 costs. The overpaid benefits will be recovered in full.

A council spokesman said: "This latest successful prosecution emphasises the seriousness of benefit fraud and shows that the authority will work to ensure that benefits are paid correctly, taking legal action where necessary."

Anti benefit fraud minister, James Plaskitt said: "Closer working with our partners in local authorities, like Bromsgrove, means that we know where and when people try to commit benefit fraud. Cheats should be warned - we're on to you."

Any suspected fraud can be reported to Bromsgrove Council on 01527 881221 or by email to hotline@bromsgrove.gov.uk or by entering the details of the fraud referral form on Bromsgrove Council's website, www.bromsgrove.gov.uk