District of Easington council paid a total of £585 housing benefit into Imran Nadeem's bank account, despite Nadeem's lodger Stephen Lord moving out.

Peterlee Magistrates' Court heard that Mr Lord was a single man claiming Jobseeker's Allowance and renting a room from Nadeem at his home in Elizabeth Place, Shotton Colliery.

The council had made arrangements to pay Nadeem, who works for the Milco Supersaver store in Potto Street, Shotton Colliery, £45 a week housing benefit on behalf of Mr Lord from March, last year.

But following council checks, it emerged Mr Lord was no longer living at the address, which Nadeem shares with his wife.

Sue Howes, prosecuting on behalf of the council, said: "An investigation commenced and confirmed Mr Lord was no longer receiving Jobseeker's Allowance and his address had changed as of June 2008.
Ms Howes said the amount paid to Nadeem was £585.

Nadeem admitted failing to declare a change in his circumstances to the council between June 16, 2008, and September 14, 2008.

Representing himself, Nadeem said: "When Mr Lord moved out he gave me notice and said he had informed the council already.

"When I was interviewed I couldn't believe it. I checked in my account and had received three payments over three months. I was happy to pay it back. I haven't done anything unlawful. I like to be honest with everybody."

Gary Walker, chairman of the magistrates' bench, gave Nadeem a six-month conditional discharge and ordered him to pay £50 towards the £309 court costs.