A BEGGAR has complained to a court that benefit cuts have left him with less than a fiver a day to live on.
Glenn Skinner admitted begging on Exeter's Cathedral Green when he approached a man who looked a "bit lonely" to ask him for change for a cool drink. Skinner told a court: "He was a copper. I thought he looked a bit lonely and we could have a chat."
The 42-year-old said he had been arrested three times since April for begging after admitting this latest offence. He told Exeter magistrates: "I am finding it a bit tough. Quite recently I have not had very much money, if anything, I have less than a £5 a day to live on." The magistrates fined him £120, reminded him he was not above the law and warned him he faces jail if he continues to beg.