Dad asked to pay back

Chesterfield magistrates heard that Christopher Arthur’s claim for Jobseekers’ Allowance was initially legitimate. But, when his wife began working, it affected his entitlement to the benefit, said Matt Evans, prosecuting for the Department for Work and Pensions.

Arthur was overpaid £4,238 from October 28, 2010, to last October.

Arthur, 46, of Ruthyn Avenue, admitted failing to declare a change in circumstances affecting his entitlement to benefit. He was fined £88, with £100 costs. The overpayment will be reclaimed directly from him.