A BONHILL woman fraudulently claimed almost £9,000 in benefits — while working in a McDonald’s restaurant.

Nicola Stewart pocketed £8,815 in Income Support payments she wasn’t entitled to over a three-and-half-year period.

The 29-year-old, of Nobleston, appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week and admitted pocketing the cash between March 16, 2010 and October 3, 2013.

Stewart had found employment but failed to notify the Department of Work and Pensions of the change in her circumstances, allowing her to continue receiving benefits.

Jeanette McLean, prosecuting, told the court that the offence came to light last year when the authorities were informed Stewart was working at McDonald’s restaurant in Dumbarton while claiming benefits.

She added: “Investigations started in August and it was found to be the case that the accused was working there.” Sheriff Bovey gave Stewart a chance to repay the money, adjourning the case for 12 months.

He said: “Miss Stewart, I’m going to defer sentence for one year for you to be of good behaviour and for you to repay the sum involved.

“In a year’s time, and if you have been of good behaviour and made repayment, then you will be admonished.

“If you haven’t then the punishment will be in the court’s hands.”