PJ Proby a benefit cheat?

[Kahnee]

Sixties pop star PJ Proby has been arrested on suspicion of a £50,000 benefits fraud, it was reported today.

The Texan singer, who now lives in Evesham, Worcestershire, was quizzed at his plush home about the suspected swindle.

He is now the subject of a Department for Work and Pensions probe, it has been claimed.

Officials are thought to be investigating whether he has undeclared concert earnings.

Proby - real name James Marcus Smith - is alleged to have pocketed up to £50,000 in benefits while still being paid for shows.

The 69-year-old, who once played with The Beatles, denies the claims.

Proby's back catalogue includes a string of top 10 hits but his career nose-dived after the 1960s.

He now tours the UK, playing to fans at small venues and theatres. His UK Spring tour is set to begin in Wavendon, Milton Keynes, next month.

West Mercia Police today confirmed that officers attended the home of a 69-year-old in Evesham in July 2007.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: "A 69-year-old man was arrested in July 2007 at his home in Evesham in connection with an investigation into benefits fraud."

[Duncan Disorderly]

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[£440,000]

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Edited February 18, 2008 by £440,000

[Bootser]

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[fyds]

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