A MOTHER claimed benefits despite receiving maintenance payments and working as a shop assistant.
Blackburn magistrates heard Tracey Butler, 22, received £1,637 to which she was not entitled, during a four-month period.
Butler, of Mosley Street, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of circumstances and three specimen charges of making a false statement to obtain benefit.
She was made subject to a community service order for six months and will be referred to the Citizens Advice Bureau for assistance with debt management.
John Greenwood, defending, said his client had no previous convictions and was deeply ashamed of appearing in court. He said Butler had walked out on her former partner after a very lengthy period of domestic violence.
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