AN ANNBANK woman who claimed more than £11,000 through benefit fraud, told the DWP she was a single parent despite being in a long term relationship.

Leighann Bryson, who now lives in New Cumnock, admitted presenting false information between July 2011 and August 2014 stating that she did not live with her partner and obtained £11,221 worth of Income Support which she was not entitled to.

The 32-year-old was living at Braeside, Annbank at the time the fraudulent activity took place. Bryson appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard how Bryson attended the DWP office to confirm she was still eligible for the benefit.

Depute Fiscal Steven McLean, said: "DWP received an anonymous letter at the beginning of 2014 that the accused was living with a Mr Seath and had been for a number of years.

"The DWP wrote to Mr Seath asking him to attend but he did not. Officers attended Mr Seath's father's property who said he had left the house four years and had been living with the accused ever since.

"Bryson was asked to attend the DWP but failed to attend because her solicitor was not available. She failed to turn up on future occasions because she claimed her children were unwell."

Speaking on her behalf, defence solicitor, Steven Maxwell, said: "There had been ongoing difficulty in this relationship. She had buried her head in the sand.

"The couple were not always living together, despite having a joint bank account. There are periods where they seemed to be living individually."

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Mactaggart, said: "You have to appreciate the significant amount of money you took over a significant period of time against previous convictions.

"I have to consider a custodial sentence and read the report again. I will call your case later."

After consideration Bryson was put on a community payback order and will be under supervision for 30 months. She will also complete 270 hours unpaid work within 12 months.