AN Irvine man who admitted falsely claiming £10,000 in benefits is awaiting sentence.

Timothy Ryland, 44, was caught working in a supermarket while claiming Disability Living Allowance.

Kilmarnock Sheriff Court heard last week how a member of staff at Irvine’s Job Centre was given information from an anonymous source that Ryland’s medical condition had improved. 

Ryland, of Dunton Knoll, attended court using a walking stick.

An investigation by the Department of Work & Pensions found that Ryland was actually working for Aldi as a fruit picker.

After being interviewed by DWP staff, Ryland accepted working for the supermarket. He additionally confessed to cycling several miles every week.

Ryland was therefore no longer entitled to Disability Living Allowance and had obtained £10,000 he wasn’t entitled to.

At court last week, Ryland pleaded guilty to the offences, which occurred between 2013 and 2015.

Colin McLaughlin, defending, said his client could pay around a third of the £10,000 owed straight away. The solicitor added that a re-payment plan is already in place with the DWP at £20 per fortnight.

But presiding Sheriff David Hall warned Ryland that he could face jail.

He said: “This is a serious matter, we’re talking about a lot of money here.

“You have no previous convictions and at 44 years old it’s disappointing someone of your maturity should appear in court for the first time for something like this.

“You were clearly at it for a period of time in the libel. You’re on the cusp of custody here and it’s in your interest that by the time you return to court that some of this money is repaid.”

Ryland’s case was adjourned until January for reports and a Restriction of Liberty Order assessment. He must provide evidence of paying back £4,000 to the DWP.