A Milford Haven woman is accused of benefit fraud totalling £39,000.

Elizabeth Haines, of Cromwell Heights, did not appear at Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday, April 17, but made representations through her solicitor Mike Kelleher.

The 58 year-old faces three dishonesty charges, and is accused of dishonestly failing to notify Pembrokeshire County Council and the Department for Work and Pensions of changes in her circumstances which could affect her entitlement to benefits.

It is alleged that she failed to inform the relevant departments of savings and investments which were in excess of permitted levels, which could affect housing and council tax benefits and Employment and Support Allowance.

The offences are alleged to have taken place in Milford Haven between 2012 and 2016.

No plea was entered at Tuesday’s hearing.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction to hear the case and Haines was granted unconditional bail until her next hearing on May 18.