Tenancy cheats have been kicked out of housing after illegally subletting their flats.

The five fraudsters had their contracts with housing association Affinity Sutton annulled, after a joint investigation with Hertsmere Borough Council that began late last year.

The properties have now been made available for others in need of housing.

Richard Bellis, head of supported housing for Affinity Sutton, said the company takes tenancy fraud “very seriously.”

He added: “We provide affordable housing for some of the most vulnerable people in our society, so when someone abuses this provision we take it very seriously.”