A former Somersham resident has admitted fraudulently claiming benefits totalling more than £100,000 over 10 years following a tip-off from a member of the public.

John Bolton, formerly of Springfields, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on Monday (June 9) charged with six counts of fraud between 2003 and 2013.

The 63-year-old, who now lives in Loughton, Essex, had been living in a property managed by Huntingdon-based social landlord Luminus.

The court heard how Bolton had failed to declare he was married in 2003, moved to Essex but kept claiming benefit from the Somersham address from 2003-2008, had set up a business in 2004 and had assets worth more than £30,000 in 2005.

Bolton also admitted sub-letting his Luminus property for five years between 2008 and 2013 and claiming council tax discounts at the same address from 2006-2011.

He has since repaid all the money owed to Luminus and Huntingdonshire District Council, which brought the prosecution against Bolton after an investigation by its fraud team was sparked by the tip-off.

The case was adjourned and Bolton is due to be sentenced at the same court on Monday, June 30.

INFORMATION: If you know someone who is cheating the benefits system, call HDC’s confidential fraud line on 01480 388188, visit www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk, or email benefitfraud@huntsdc.gcsx.gov.uk.