A serial burglar has been banned from wearing a wig after numerous attempts to disguise himself while stealing in Gloucester city centre.

According to the police, 33-year-old Hannah Roberts wore various headgear to bypass the theft ban.

He had been banned from entering any member stores by the City Safe Scheme but had repeatedly ignored the sanction.

When challenged by staff or security guards, Roberts reportedly became abusive and fled with stolen items.

In order to bypass the ban, she started wearing various wigs to disguise herself.

But the distinctive tattoo on his neck meant staff could easily recognize him.

Now lawyers at Gloucestershire Magistrates’ Court have handed him a criminal behavior order banning him from entering the town center and all shops participating in the Gloucester City Safe scheme.

Roberts, of Nettleton Road, Gloucester, is also prohibited from wearing a wig or hair extensions designed to alter her appearance when entering any retail store.

Constable Andy Plant, of Gloucestershire Police, said: “Our retail sector is suffering from these persistent thieves.

“Roberts has been the top burglary offender for the last few months and we now have another tool to deal with him in the form of this pattern of criminal behaviour.

“We will continue to support our businesses in and around the city by targeting thieves and, where possible, obtaining new orders from the court.”