A MAN claimed more than £16,000 in housing benefits in a five-year scam, a court heard.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Michael Parkinson, 56, claimed he lived alone and the only income coming into his house was incapacity benefits.

But his wife Patricia was sharing his home with him and she worked as a £200-a-week carer.

Surveillance showed Patricia Parkinson leaving the property repeatedly and her car had been parked outside.

The defendant was also spotted coming out of the house in a suit but claimed he was working as a consultant and only got expenses.

Parkinson, of Merlin Court, Accrington, admitted dishonestly failing to notify a change in circumstances.

He was given four months in jail, suspended for 18 months, with 120 hours’ unpaid work.