THE landlord of The Blue Bell pub in Dockenfield has been found guilty of taking part in a £1.5m benefits scam.

In a hearing at Southwark Crown Court last Friday, Barry Brooks, 49, was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud after claiming he was wheelchair-bound and unable to climb stairs while all the time being capable of riding motorbikes, scuba diving and running the local pub.

His business partner at The Blue Bell, Derek Arnold, 55, was also found guilty of conspiracy to defraud for his part in the scam and both men are awaiting sentencing.

For full story, see this week's Farnham Herald.