HOTELIERS in Bournemouth are being urged to sign up to a joint police initiative combatting crimes such as child exploitation, drug dealing and cyber fraud.

The programme, Hotel Watch, has been running on an informal basis since 2015 - but it will be formally launched at two events next month.

Deputy Chief Constable James Vaughan said: "It is vital that we work with local businesses to enhance our understanding of crime trends, gather intelligence and ultimately protect the people that live and visit our communities.

"The Hotel Watch scheme has already assisted with a number of investigations. I would encourage all businesses in the area to register and I hope to see the initiative expand in the near future."

The scheme started after officers from the Bournemouth Central Neighbourhood Policing Team approached a group of hoteliers who had already been sharing information via email.

Dorset Police joined the group and a dedicated email network was soon established for hotels to share intelligence and for police to distribute information appeals.

Two launch events, open to all owners, managers and employees from hotels and bed and breakfasts across Bournemouth, will be held early in March.

Police will be on hand to give advice on how hotels can protect themselves from cyber crime, and spot signs of crimes such as drug use, dealing and child sexual exploitation, a Dorset Police spokesman explained.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: "Watch schemes are a hugely valuable resource for police.

"The sort of intelligence shared by hotels can help the Force respond quickly to situations where vulnerable people may be at risk and to reduce crime. It is important we strengthen the relationship between police and local business to ensure our county remains a safe place for people to stay."

Last year three hotels on the town's East Cliff were targeted by thieves within two months.

Furniture was stolen from The Cumberland and the nearby Miramar Hotel within a couple of days.

The first Hotel Watch launch event will take place on Tuesday, March 7, from 2-5pm at the Cumberland Hotel.

The second event, at the Hallmark Hotel, Westcliff, is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8, from 11am-2pm

Both events are free, but there are limited number of spaces, so attendees will need to register in advance.

Hoteliers should emailing hotelwatch@dorset.pnn.police.uk by February 27.