A MAN who unlawfully claimed more than £5,000 in benefits has been given a curfew.

Colin Crarey, of Cobden Street, Dalton, appeared before Furness Magistrates' Court on Tuesday facing charges of dishonestly claiming benefits.

The 72-year-old was accused of failing to notify the Department for Work and Pensions of changes to his circumstances, which saw him receive an additional £5,360.50.

Lee Dacre, prosecuting, said: "The defendant was claiming disability living allowance on the basis that it took him 10 seconds to walk one yard.

"He stated that he needed someone with him to help him get around outside and that he had difficulty moving indoors.

"However, the defendant was then observed walking his two dogs at a moderate pace, controlling them and letting them on and off their leads."

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Tristan Roberts, defending, said the incident wasn't as clear cut as one might think and went on to tell the court how his client's troubles began when he broke his back after falling from a roof while at work.

He said: "My client was assessed as being 34 per cent disabled. He had severe osteoarthritis which also led to severe depression.

"Mr Crarey then had surgery on his knee which did enable him to move around a little but more.

"He was told by medical advisers that he ought to do more exercise and get out more.

"We're not talking about walking miles around a golf course swinging a club around or climbing up mountains.

"We're talking about modest walks around his home with his two small dogs. It's therapeutic and that's what he was told to do.

"He is thoroughly ashamed of himself and has never troubled the police with his behaviour before."

Crarey pleaded guilty to the charge and has to observe a curfew between 7pm and 7am for three months.