A WOMAN who fraudulently claimed more than £31,500 in benefits over six years has been slapped with community service.

Anne Queen, of Drumley Drive, Mossblown, failed to notify the DWP of a change in her circumstances, when she started working as a personal carer, which affected her entitlement to Incapacity Benefit between September 2006 and November 2011.

The 59-year-old also admitted exaggerating her mobility and care needs despite being able to work as a care assistant in a nursing home and fraudulently claiming a further £8,000 in Disability Allowance between April 2005 and November 2011. 

Queen appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court before Sheriff Desmond Leslie last week.

Depute Fiscal Lorri Pidgeon said: "The accused was claiming benefits but failed to update her circumstances. The charges speaks for themselves."

Speaking on her behalf, defence solicitor, Quinton Muir, said: "Ms Queen is a 59-year-old single woman and is now employed. 

"She was a carer but now the person she was caring for has gone into a home. She has been making repayments for some time and has paid £4200 in compensation so far.

"She has no previous convictions or any other matters outstanding. Mr Queen has had health problems and significant problems with cancer. She perseveres with her health injuries. 

"Lastly it is with some regret that the system does not recognise with a person with national insurance us paying tax.

"She would not have been entitled to the benefits. I have spent a lot of time with Ms Queen and she is a very anxious person.

"I would ask you lord ship with respect for a community based order for her good character and repayments."

Sheriff Leslie has ordered Queen to complete 200 hours unpaid work within six months.