A mother falsely claimed more than £20,000 in benefits after failing to declare her partner was employed and living with her.

Rakotomanga Andrianavony, 42, of Peacock Street, Gravesend, admitted three charges of failing to declare changes in circumstances to Gravesham council and The Department for Work and Pensions.

She was rumbled after a Gravesham council investigator obtained evidence that the partner was linked to the address through his employer and bank records.

She made a full admission during an interview with the council.

Prosecuting, Mary Jacobson told the court Andrianavony was in receipt of Income Support, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit which was paid on declarations that she was a single mother between July 2008 and March 2010.

Andrianavony told the court she was ashamed for what had happened.

She received a 180 day prison sentence, suspended for two years, 300 hours unpaid work and £100 costs.

She was also told she will have to repay £20,466.63 in benefits at £100 a month at Dartford Magistrates Court on Wednesday, February 1.

A Gravesham council spokesman said: "If you are aware of a benefit cheat and wish to report a case please either phone Gravesham Borough Council between 9am to 5pm on 01474 33 7231 or leave a message on our 24hr voice mail 01474 33 7400, you can text FRAUD with details to 07781480521 or visit www.gravesham.gov.uk/fraud."