Former mayor denies benefit fraud

Mr Walker claimed he needed round-the-clock care from his wife

A former mayor from Merseyside claimed benefits even though he was fit to work and carry out his mayoral duties, Liverpool Crown Court has heard.

John Walker, 57, the former mayor of Sefton, and his wife Catie, 49, each face three charges of conspiring to fraudulently obtain benefits.

The jury heard they completed benefits applications which claimed Mr Walker needed constant care from his wife.

Both deny fraudulently claiming income support and disability allowance.

The charges relate to the couple's failure to declare Mr Walker's £14,531 a year expenses as councillor and mayor, and Catie Walker's £70-100 a week job as a taxi escort for disabled children.

'Dizziness and blackouts'

Teresa Loftus, prosecuting, told the court the couple completed the benefits forms between 1999 and 2005, when Mr Walker was becoming increasingly involved in community activities.

He became firstly a councillor and then the ceremonial mayor of Sefton during this time.

She said: "He said he was unable to walk more than 20-25 yards without severe pain and discomfort.

The evidence shows the benefits claims were at best dishonestly embellished and at worst a complete tissue of lies Teresa Loftus, prosecuting

"He said he needed assistance when outdoors as he suffered from dizziness and blackouts, frequently falling or stumbling."

Ms Loftus added that Mr Walker stated he was unable to cook or prepare a meal, and that he often forgot to take his medication.

She said the forms said his condition remained and there had been no improvements and in some cases got worse.

She added: "These forms were submitted while John Walker was involved in community groups and worked as a governor at a local school."

"The evidence shows the benefits claims were at best dishonestly embellished and at worst a complete tissue of lies."

The case continues.