Concerned residents who have "shopped a cheat" in Maldon have saved taxpayers more than £200,000 in a year.

And now Maldon District Council is thanking those who contacted the Benefit Investigation Team about fraudulent claims, and is urging more people to take part.

Investigators at the council also received confidential calls and letters from members of the public which helped them to find overpaid benefit of £75,000 in 1999.

A spokesperson for the council said: "The government has introduced new measures to help councils crackdown on benefit cheats who each year effectively steal millions of pounds from taxpayers' pockets, and from people who genuinely need help.

"The new measures will help Maldon District Council to identify and prosecute in serious cases."

The council knows the co-operation of the public is vital if it is going to crack down on benefit cheats. He added: "We are urging people to keep their eyes and ears open to help stop money going to those who are not entitled to it."

If you want to take part in the Shop A Cheat In Your Street scheme, and you know of someone who you think is getting money to which they are not entitled, you can call or fax the Audit Team in confidence on 01621 843400.

The line is open 24 hours a day. You can also e-mail on hotline@maldon.gov.uk

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