Littleborough Paralympian admits benefit fraud

Simon Jackson MBE competing at the Paralympic World Cup

Triple gold medal-winning Paralympian, Simon Jackson, 40, from Littleborough, fraudulently claimed £10,000 of taxpayers' money for taxi rides he didn't make.

An MBE and Britain's most decorated judo star, Jackson took the cash for cab fares to work - but was caught being driven there by his wife.

Jackson, who is visually impaired and can't use public transport, is allowed to claim legitimate taxi journeys, but was caught out during a sting by the Department for Work and Pensions.

The star admitted benefit fraud and told Manchester magistrates he was 'ashamed' of his actions. His cheating took place over a 10-month period, the court heard.

Jackson, who won gold medals in three Paralympic Games, was allowed to claim back money for taxi fares, some of which were to Brownhill School in Rochdale where he works as a student learning mentor. But after the DWP was tipped off, Jackson was observed during a one-week surveillance operation in July last year.

On one occasion he was spotted by investigators using a different cab firm from the one he claimed for and on other occasions was seen being driven by his wife.

Jackson pleaded guilty to two charges of fraud by false representation relating to taxi payments. The offences were committed between 1 September 2010, and 23 April 2011, as well as 3 May and 22 July 2011.

Jackson will be sentenced on 22 January after reports have been prepared.