BENEFIT cheats have been forced to repay more than £310,000 after a fraud investigation.

A team working for Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire district councils found 87 people claimed cash they were not entitled to during the last financial year. More than £160,000 was recovered in South Oxfordshire and £150,000 in the Vale of White Horse.

Fifteen people were fined by the council, 57 were cautioned and 15 taken to court. They are now paying back the money. Those found guilty in court received a range of punishments including suspended prison sentences, curfew orders, unpaid work and fines.

Most admitted they did not report changes in their circumstances, which would have altered the amount of money they were entitled to.

Other offences involved claimants dishonestly making false statements on benefit applications.

Paul Howden, responsible for fraud investigations at both councils, said: “We will not hesitate to take action against anyone suspected of committing benefit fraud.

“It is simply not on that the honest majority should pay money to support those cheats who think they can swindle the system.”

If you suspect someone is cheating the benefits system, call 0800 1695716 or email fraud@southandvale.gov.uk