Katona's mother threatened with arrest

A benefit fraud case surrounding Kerry Katona's mother was adjourned yesterday after she failed to attend sentencing.

Sue Katona has admitted that she claimed over £6,000 in income support and council tax benefit, despite having £46,000 in the bank. She made much of her money by selling stories about former Atomic Kitten star Kerry.

The 48-year-old has now missed five hearings, claiming that she cannot attend court because she suffers from agoraphobia.

After adjourning the case at Runcorn magistrates' court yesterday, judge Bridget Knight warned that Sue will be arrested if she does not attend a hearing on August 4.

She said: "I am concerned she has never attended court. I have had defendants with agoraphobia and they have appeared in court."

Reality TV star Kerry now has no contact with her mother. She has said that she feels betrayed by comments Sue made about her in the press.