A fraudster who claimed more than £10,000 in housing benefit he was not entitled to has been sentenced.

Lee Goodrum, formerly of London Road, Potters Bar, was handed a 12-month community order at St Albans Magistrates Court.

The 44-year-old began claiming the benefit at Honeywood Close, Potters Bar, in 2008 but he then moved to the London Road address in 2009.

He failed to notify the council of the move and dishonestly claimed a total of £10,949. He pleaded guilty at a hearing at Watford Magistrates Court in December.

Mr Goodrum admitted he had acted dishonestly an an interview with a Hertsmere Borough Council housing officer and was sentenced to 120 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £100 and £60 victim surcharge.

Councillor John Graham, who is responsible for finance, said: "Hopefully this sentencing sends out a clear message that offences will be detected and that the council's anti-fraud unit will rigorously pursue offenders.

“Benefits are there for those who really need them and we will be tough on those who cheat the system."