A prolific thief has been banned from wearing wigs – after numerous attempts to disguise himself.

Hannah Roberts, 33, used a series of hairpieces to try to beat the ban on entering the shops.

Gloucester magistrates at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court handed him a Criminal Behavior Order (CBO) earlier this month.

Roberts was banned by the City Safe Scheme from entering member shops – but repeatedly ignored the sanction.

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

In an effort to circumvent the ban, she began wearing a variety of wigs to disguise herself.

However, a distinctive tattoo on her neck meant staff could easily recognize her.

According to the CBO, Roberts was banned from entering Gloucester city center as well as any stores participating in the Gloucester City Safe program.

She is also prohibited from wearing a wig or hair designed to alter her appearance when entering any retail space.

Constable Andy Plant, from Gloucestershire Police’s vulnerability team, said: “Our retail industry is suffering from these persistent thieves.

“Roberts has been a major theft offender in recent months and we now have another tool to deal with her in the form of this Criminal Behavior Order.

“We will continue to support businesses in and around the town by targeting shoplifters and obtaining further court orders where possible.”