£34,400 fraud charge

A WATERHEAD woman appeared before Oldham magistrates yesterday charged with fraudulently claiming around £34,400 in benefits over 10 years.

Irene Lofthouse (59), of Springhill Court, Heywood Street, is alleged to have claimed incapacity benefit, disability living allowance and income support while working in a call centre.

She did not enter a plea and the case was adjourned until October 19 for committal to crown court.