A 68-year-old Douglas woman has admitted a benefit fraud worth more than £6,000.

Christine Howson, of Saddle Mews, pleaded guilty to two counts of the offence and will be sentenced on October 25.

The case was adjourned until then to allow time for a probation report to be prepared.

Howson admitted making false representations between September 2010 and February 2012 as well as failing to declare a change in her circumstances in September 2011, namely failing to declare work and earnings.

Defence advocate Stephen Wood asked for the case to be adjourned so that a probation report could be completed before his client is sentenced.

Prosecutor Roger Kane told the court that Howson had started to pay back the overpayment, which totals £6,251, at a rate of £100 per month.

Mr Kane added that Howson has no previous convictions.

Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes accepted jurisdiction saying that her court powers would be sufficient for sentencing after taking into account the defendant’s guilty pleas and her lack of previous convictions.

Mrs Hughes ordered that the probation report should consider all options, including custody.

Bail was granted in the sum of £250 with conditions that Howson live at her home address, liaise with probation services, and not leave the island without court permission.