Two men have been jailed for insurance fraud in a case that personal injury lawyers say highlights a 'sea change hardening' in the courts' attitude towards scammers.

A man was jailed for nine months for fraudulently claiming £9,200 compensation from Wigan Council, saying he broke his ankle after tripping over a pothole. Investigations by northern firm Forbes Solicitors, acting for the council, revealed he was injured playing football. His nephew, who perjured himself in support of the claim, was sentenced to six months. Forbes partner and anti-fraud manager Christopher Booth said: 'The case shows a definite sea change hardening in the way courts view insurance fraud. Until now, they have mostly imposed fines, but at last the offence is being treated with the seriousness it deserves.' David Fisher, technical claims manager at top insurer Axa, welcomed 'encouraging signs' that the courts will take action against fraudsters.

Henry Bermingham, president of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers, said: 'The vast number of dubious claims hoovered up by claims management companies persuaded the courts they could be brought fraudulently. There is no such thing as a local authority pushover any more.' Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) vice-president John McQuater said he 'fully supports a tough stance by the courts'.