A 22-YEAR-OLD woman claimed benefits as a single parent despite living with her partner who worked as a scaffolder.

Blackburn magistrates heard when investigators visited Pariss Ebony Walsh at home she maintained she was living alone and said she would inform the department if her circumstances changed.

But surveillance revealed Andrew Watson leaving her home early in the morning and going to his vehicle which was parked in the next street.

And further inquiries revealed Mr Watson had been subject to a tagged curfew at her house and he was also paying the gas and electricity bills.

Walsh, 22, of Royshaw Avenue, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of circumstances which affected her entitlement to housing and council tax benefit and income support.

The magistrates ordered a report after hearing the total overpayment was £17,942.

Scott Parker, defending, said his client had no previous convictions and the claim had initially been genuine.

“It is fair to say her partner came and went during the period of the claim,” said Mr Parker.