(25 Aug) been sentenced at Preston Crown Court for fraud.

Janice Johnson, 66, of Thwaites, Millom has been sentenced to four years in prison for fraud by false representation.

Today’s sentence followed an investigation into fraudulent claims by Johnson naming her as the sole beneficiary of her neighbours’ farming estate in Broughton-in-Furness worth £1.1 million pound.

Johnson was convicted of five counts of fraud by false representation following a trial lasting eight days.

Detective Sergeant James Graham said: “This was a complex investigation, Johnson made multiple claims of anonymous letters written by her neighbour claiming that he wanted her to be sole beneficiary.

“Some of the letters were deemed not to constitute a will and were worthless, however claims were made against one letter with alleged witnesses that have since passed.

“Johnson fabricated the documents and made repeated attempts to acquire the farm over a number of months, immediately after the owner’s death.

“Enquiries were conducted with handwriting experts to determine the legitimacy of the claim.

“Johnson at no stage made any ownership of fabricating the documents in her plan to take the estate after her neighbour’s death.

“Today’s result means the rightful persons will inherit his land and assets.”