A FORMER publican and his partner faced financial difficulties and emotional turmoil after their business failed and their young child developed kidney trouble.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Andrew Chappell and Donna Brooks sought to ease their situation by claiming housing and council tax benefit to which they were not entitled.

And as a result of false declarations made to Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, they received over-payment of £2,611.

Chappell, 26, and Brooks, 25, both of Bridge Mill Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to charges of making false declarations, furnishing false documents and allowing false documents to be furnished.

The case was adjourned until September 17 after the magistrates ordered the preparation of pre-sentence reports.

John Hughes, prosecuting, said Chappell and Brooks had been paid benefit on the basis that he was working 20 hours a week at the Roebuck pub, in Rishton. Proof of earnings certificates had been submitted, but a subsequent investigation revealed that Chappell's employers had not completed them.

Chappell admitted signing three forms and falsifying evidence as to his earnings and that he knew Brooks had falsified two others on his behalf.

The investigation revealed that Brooks worked an average of 35 hours a week at he pub, where he is still employed.

Graeme Tindall, defending, said it was the first time either defendant had appeared before the court. Their troubles had started three years earlier when they left the tenancy of a Darwen pub.

"It was not a successful venture and they were left with substantial debt," said Mr Tindall. "They were having to pay the brewery £100 a week."

He said that their child had developed kidney problems and had needed specialist treatment in Manchester, placing a further strain on their finances.

"They were facing particular financial difficulties and considerable emotional pressures as a result of the child being poorly," he said. "I hope the court can take the view that this is the first and the last time they will be appearing here."