ORGANISED criminals are targeting hotels in the Cotswolds according to Gloucestershire Police.

The constabulary warned hotel owners to be vigilant of people posing as guests and particularly breaking into people’s rooms to steal high value items.

Hotels in Gloucestershire have been targeted over the past few years and with Cheltenham National Hunt Festival starting next week and hotels full of guests attending Cheltenham Racecourse thieves are likely to be operating.

They may pose as paying customers in the bar or restaurant so they can watch when guests leave, or position themselves near reception so they can hear the room number that guests are allocated.

Gloucestershire Police are urging hotel owners and guests to be wary of these criminals and the techniques that they use.

Guests should not leave large amounts of cash, wallets or phones in their bedrooms and people should be cautious if they receive a call from their bank after a theft and never reveal their PIN or security details over the phone.

If you witness any suspicious behaviour or are the victim of criminal activity call police on 101.