19/01/2007

Marathon running fraudster jailed

A 47-year-old man who ran several marathons has been jailed for benefit fraud.

Paul Appleby from Mansfield in Nottinghamshire had begun claiming benefits claiming that he could not walk unaided and needed a frame or a wheelchair.

The former miner admitted fraud in December with sentencing deferred until Friday at Nottingham Crown Court.

He had retired from work allegedly due to back problems and had difficulty walking.

However, in 2001 he joined a running club while still claiming benefits.

Appleby, who had fraudulently claimed a total of £22,300 in benefits, was jailed for 10 months.

(SP/EF)

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