A FORMER benefits advisor has admitted cheating the system out of more than £16,500.

Michael Bagan worked for the Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) in Huyton on a voluntary basis and even helped people fill out their benefits claims forms.

But the 56-year-old was secretly swindling thousands of pounds he wasn't entitled to.

He yesterday admitted two counts of dishonestly failing to notify a change in circumstances at Liverpool Crown Court.

The charges relate to Bagan claiming incapacity benefit and disability living allowance between April, 2002, and September, 2007.

It is understood Bagan insisted he needed help getting out of bed, struggled to get dressed and could barely walk.

But he was actually working at the CAB as a volunteer, even representing people at tribunals.

It is understood Bagan was also involved with his local bowls and cricket teams and was seen playing games and jogging.

Bagan, of St Mark’s Road, Huyton, had originally starting claiming incapacity benefit in 1994 and then disability living allowance in 1996, saying he suffered from diabetes and depression.

Judge David Swift will sentence Bagan on July 28.