For almost three years Patricia Gallagher failed to tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that she was living with her partner Mark Buck.

In that time the 47-year-old defrauded £32,139 in housing benefit, income support and council tax benefit by claiming she was living as a single mum.

Hartlepool magistrates told Gallagher, of Whitrout Road, Hartlepool, that the total was so high that they had little option but to send her to crown court for sentencing.

Jobless Gallagher, who cares for her disabled 16-year-old child, admitted failing to notify the DWP of a change in circumstances between October 1, 2003, and June 18, 2006.

Adrian Morris, prosecuting for the DWP, said: "The original claim was legitimate but she then began living with her partner Mark Buck.

"It was an ongoing relationship with residence and they have subsequently married."

Mr Morris added that Gallagher admitted to the benefit fraud as soon as she was questioned by DWP investigators.

David Smith, mitigating, said: "She admits she has claimed this amount dishonestly but if she had instead taken the benefits she was entitled to she would be earning almost as much. There is a great deal of mitigation as she is the full-time carer of her disabled 16-year-old child."

John Taylor, chairman of the magistrates bench, told Gallagher: "We are not obliged to deal with anything over £20,000 and this is not only just over £20,000 but a substantial amount more.

"We do not feel we can handle this case. All sentencing options remain open at crown court, including custody."

Gallagher will be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on a date to be fixed.