WINCHESTER civic chiefs are warning that their crackdown on benefit cheats will continue this year.

In 2006, the city council successfully prosecuted 11 people who committed fraud over council tax and housing benefits.

Last year, £558,000 of housing and council tax benefit was overpaid to residents in the Winchester district because of fraud and customers failing to report relevant changes.

Posters have gone up across the district stating 'No ifs, No Buts' and urging people to be honest with the council.

The benefits section has two full-time investigators who look at data to find inconsistencies in claimants' circumstances. They also receive tip-offs from other agencies and the public.

Councillor Freddie Allgood, portfolio holder for finance, said: "At Winchester City Council we take pride in our benefits service and the help that it gives to thousands of individuals and families in our district who really need it. What we do not take kindly to are the people who are fraudulently claiming, as it takes vital money away from those who are in greatest need."

"We understand that sometimes circumstances change and it is easy to forget to tell us, but we ask you to let us know of any changes you think may impact on your benefits so we can get your payments corrected as soon as possible."