David Evans (49) previously of Oakfield Avenue went before Goole Magistrates after wrongly claiming housing and council tax benefit.

He was given a 12 month conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £500 towards council costs.

Evans pleaded guilty to failing to give a prompt notification of a change in circumstances. The court heard he had failed to declare that he had vacated his property in September 2006.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council's sanction officer Richard Johnson said: "Anyone who is contemplating committing benefit fraud should understand that, if they do so, they run the risk of being brought before the courts."

This prosecution was taken after consideration of the ERYC's prosecution policy.

Anyone who suspects benefit fraud in the East Riding area should call the 24-hour benefit fraud hotline in confidence on 01482 394949, report on-line at www.eastriding.gov.uk text 07786 200 850, or email bfraud@eastriding.gov.uk in strict confidence.