A benefit fraudster has been told to work 150 hours for free to pay back his debt for dishonesty.

Ian Gerrish of Copperfield, Chigwell, was found guilty of withholding information over his savings, whilst claiming benefits over a period of four years.

The 59-year-old was fined £85, as well as court costs, at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court yesterday, and ordered to complete unpaid work.

Gerrish was charged with failing to notify Epping Forest District Council and the Department for Work and Pensions of information which he knew would affect his housing and council tax benefits, and entitlement to Income Support.