AN Abbotts Ann benefits cheat has been ordered to carry out unpaid work in the community.

Charles Bryan Taylor, of Criswick Close, admitted to claiming housing benefits when his partner was in employment and their earnings had increased.

The 49-year-old was made the subject of a community order when he appeared in Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court recently, requiring him to carry out 70 hours of unpaid work in the community.

Taylor was also ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £60 and £40 costs.