A woman from Ashley who illegally claimed nearly £6000 in Council Tax support has been fined.

Rebecca Ward, 28, of Silhalls Close, pleaded guilty to two acts of fraud against East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Cambridge Magistrates’ Court heard Ms Ward had dishonestly claimed Council Tax Support and a Single Person Discount of 25% over a four year period.

An investigation revealed she had failed to notify the council that her partner was living with her. Her partner was in receipt of earnings which would affect Ms Ward’s entitlement to Council Tax Support. His residence also removed her entitlement to her Single Person Discount.

The court heard that between January 2020 and January 2024, Ms Ward had claimed £4278.24 in Council Tax Support and £1560.47 in Single Person Discount.

Ms Ward was fined £200, ordered to pay costs of £800 and a victim surcharge of £114. The council is also in the process of recovering the £5838.71 overpayment.