A former magistrate has been ordered to repay £21,000 he illegally claimed in housing benefit.
Mohammed Gora, 53, who admitted benefit fraud, claimed the money using his mother's maiden name, Gloucester Crown Court was told.
He must perform 200 hours community service and pay £1,000 costs.
In 1993 Gora claimed housing benefit and council tax relief for a property in Furlong Road which he claimed to be renting when he was really the owner.
The court heard that in a succession of fraudulent claims, Gora banked a total of £21,000.