A HALE man has been convicted of benefit fraud.

Smaih Chaudry, 31, of Briony Avenue, was convicted of dishonestly obtaining housing and council tax benefit, following a trial at Trafford Magistrates Court.

Mr Chaudry had failed to informTrafford Council that he had received payments and income from his company, I-Tech Direct (Cheshire) Limited.

This resulted in an overpayment of benefits amounting to £1449.84 between December 2012 and February 2013.

On August 28, he was sentenced to carry out 80 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay £1,000 towards the cost of the prosecution and a victim surcharge of £60.

The council is also recovering all dishonestly-obtained monies from Mr Chaudry.

Executive councillor for finance, Patrick Myers, said: "The council is determined that it will bring anyone who attempts to make fraudulent benefit claims to justice.

"It is vital that people let us know of any changes in their personal circumstances immediately so we can make sure that they continue to receive the benefits which they are entitled to."

If you suspect anyone of benefit fraud contact Trafford Council on 0161 912 2852 or via Freefone number 0800 328 6340