A SOUTHAMPTON woman ripped off the state for more than three years over benefit claims.

Joanne Gale, 36, of Rossington Avenue, Bitterne Manor, pleaded guilty at Winchester Crown Court to two charges of failing to disclose a change of circumstance over her entitlement to claim income support and housing and council tax benefit.

Gale also admitted a third charge of making a false statement to obtain benefit.

Prosecutors were unable to say how much Gale had stolen from taxpayers.

Gale, who was said to be of previous good character, was bailed for sentence on July 10.