Ex-mayor of Sefton convicted of benefit fraud

Nov 1 2007

Ex Sefton Mayor John walker, and his wife Catie

A FORMER mayor of Sefton and his wife were today convicted of swindling state benefits.

John Walker, 57, a former Labour mayor of Sefton was accused of plotting with his wife, Catie, 48, to exaggerate his ill health to obtain disability living allowance (DLA) and income support.

The couple, from Bootle, Merseyside, were today found guilty of conspiracy to defraud in respect of the DLA.

The jury at Liverpool Crown Court has so far been unable to reach a verdict in respect of the alleged income support fraud.

The five men and seven women have retired again to continue their deliberations.