Hotline to catch benefit cheats

A 24-hour hotline has been introduced by a Tyneside council for residents to report suspected benefit cheats.

Anyone in Gateshead who suspects that benefits are being claimed illegally can now call fraud investigations 24-hours a day.

The town council said its fraud investigations returned hundreds of thousands of pounds a year, with most leads coming from an anonymous tip off.

A spokesman stressed the line was completely confidential.

Derek Coates from Gateshead Council said: "Thousands of people who legitimately claim benefits and tens of thousands more honest taxpayers across Gateshead are dismayed that people attempt to take money which they do not deserve.

"We share their concerns and are determined to do everything within our powers to bring these people before the courts and recover the money."