AN ISLE of Wight man who fraudulently claimed benefits to the tune of more than £21,000 will go before a judge next month.  

James Keat, of Thomas Street, Ryde, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Tuesday, April 9.

The 47-year-old admitted dishonestly making a false statement to obtain a benefit/advantage/payment, on April 22, 2020.

Prosecutor, Liz Miller, said Keat had been claiming Universal Credit to which he had no entitlement.

She said the total overpayment amounted to £21,942.29.

Ms Miller told the bench available evidence showed Keat had savings and capital over the cut-off limit which he had not declared, and he should not have been entitled to Universal Credit.

Michael McGoldrick, defending, said Keat was a man of previously good character and a single parent.

He said the money he had was linked to his business, was not his savings, and he used it to keep his struggling business afloat.

Mr McGoldrick said Keat did not perceive them as savings, sought advice over his fluctuating funds, and tried to do everything by the book.

Keat saw his case adjourned to May 10 at the Isle of Wight Crown Court.

He was granted unconditional bail, and a pre-sentence report was ordered.