A MAN who was "at a low ebb" succumbed to temptation when a man in a pub asked him to get involved in a benefits scam.

Blackburn magistrates heard Danny Wilkinson allowed his details and bank account to be used for the fraud which brought in three separate payments of over £1,500.

Wilkinson, 28, of Pleckgate Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to three charges of retaining a wrongful credit. He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 15 days rehabilitation activity requirement and a curfew between 9pm and 6am. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Scott Parker, prosecuting, said the offences all followed the same pattern. An initial claim for universal credit was followed a day later for an amended claim which resulted in an advance of £1,500.

"The claims were false from the outset," said Mr Parker.

Richard Prew, defending, said his client's world fell apart due to the unexpected death of his father.

"He started drinking heavily, lost his job and was vulnerable when he was approached by an acquaintance in the pub," said Mr Prew.

"This was a scam that was going on at the time and he was told all he had to do was give his details for the claim for Universal Credit to be made.

"In return he would receive half of the money gained."

Mr Prew said it was over two years since the offences were committed and his client now had a job and was highly regarded by his employer.

"His boss has offered to pay the compensation in due course," said Mr Prew.