A WOMAN who obtained almost £3,500 through benefit fraud has been given six months to pay the money back.

Margaret Gordon, of Afton Avenue, Mossblown admitted claiming £3449.10 in Employment and Support Allowance which she was not entitled to between October 2014 and January 2015.

She pleaded guilty to failing to inform the DWP of a change in her circumstances, where she was living with her partner who was in paid employment.

The 54-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

Speaking on her behalf, defence solicitor Tony Currie, said: "Ms Gordon had found part time employment and not told the right person. She accepts this.

"Her partner was in full time employment but down to an injury he could not work. That prompted Ms Gordon to get a part time job and hoped matters would not catch up with her but they did.

"She has started paying it back this year. She was paying £40 per month but is now paying £150 per month. I hope you can take that into account. She has an unblemished record."

Sheriff Mactaggart deferred sentence for six months for the accused to be of good behaviour and to allow her to fully repay what she took.