AN ASHKIRK woman has been charged with a benefits fraud involving almost £40,000 at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Thirty two year old Rebecca Fairley of Dryden, is accused with failing to notify the Department of Work and pensions and Scottish Borders Council a change in her circumstances and that she was living with someone.

It is alleged that between October 2012 and January this year she received £16,216.87 in Income Support she was not entitled and £23,946.17 in housing benefit and council tax benefit.

The offences are said to have been committed at a house at Lindean, near Selkirk.

She pleaded not guilty to both charges and a trial date has been set for May 22.