A SPECIAL hotline to trap benefit cheats in the New Forest has sparked a flood of calls.

The new beat-the-cheats scheme was launched in the hope that residents would "shop" their dishonest neighbours.

Audit manager Steve Cranston said: "It's anticipated that some of the information received will ultimately lead to the prosecution of offenders."

Council chiefs want to hear from anyone who knows or suspects someone is receiving benefit to which they are not entitled.

False claims for housing and council tax benefit are thought to cost the district council at least £2m a year. The special, free hotline, 0800 085 1637, is open 24 hours a day.