CHEATING Christine Bishop had up to £21,000 secretly tucked away as she illegally claimed state benefits.
The 59-year-old was also working for a company called ‘Barking Mad’ as she collected her handouts.
Bishop, of Spencer Court, North Shore, admitted two charges of failing to disclose changes in her circumstances when she appeared before Blackpool Magistrates.
Martine Connah, prosecuting, told the court Bishop had claimed Income Support over a six year period.
When making her claim she said she was unfit for work and had not got savings over the statutory limit.
An investigation was launched by the Department for Work and Pensions and it revealed her bank account had £21,000 in it at one stage and she was also employed as a pet care worker.
Brett Chappell, defending, said; ”My client is under no illusions this is a serious fraud involving a large amount.”
Magistrates ordered pre-sentence reports on Bishop and warned her all options are open including prison.
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