A WOMAN who fraudulently claimed almost £20,000 in benefits has been given a suspended sentence.

Louise Tonks, 39, of Richmond Street, Bridlington, admitted making false statements to East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the Department for Work and Pensions, and appeared before Hull Crown Court.

The court heard Tonks had claimed benefits as a single parent, but had lived with her partner since October 2010, and claimed £19,182.81 between October 2010 and April 2013.

She was given a 16-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to repay the benefits.

She was also ordered to carry out 120 hours of unpaid work, and pay £80 prosecution costs. Andy Hardy, fraud investigation and enforcement officer at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The council has a zero tolerance approach to fraud of all types and will take action against anyone found cheating the system.

“If you suspect that someone may be claiming benefits that they are not entitled to, call the fraud hotline or speak to one of our officers.”

Anyone who suspects benefit fraud in the East Riding area can phone the confidential 24-hour benefit fraud hotline on 01482 394949, text 07786 200850 or email benefit.fraud@eastriding.gov.uk.