Pubs a hotbed for illegal traders, research shows

Around 12 per cent of people admit they have bought items such as DVDs, jewellery or electrical items in a pub, spending an average of £168 each, according to Halifax Home Insurance.

Two-thirds of those asked said they would knowingly buy stolen goods, 64 per cent of whom admitted they would still buy an item even if it appeared to have come from someone's home.

Only one in five people buying goods from an unauthorised trader asked where the goods came from, while almost half said they would not report someone selling stolen goods to the police.

People are most likely to buy portable items such as DVDs, CDs and videos in a pub, followed by clothing, electrical goods, mobile phones and jewellery.

Mark Hastings, communications director at the British Beer & Pub Association, said: "Licensed premises are run by reputable professionals. However, it is vital licensees are aware that there are criminals about who have no hesitation in using pubs as places to sell stolen goods.

"We are calling on our members to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities."

Vicky Emmott, senior underwriter at Halifax Home Insurance, said: "Millions of Britons may be unwittingly fuelling a cycle of theft by making it easy for burglars to resell their products in pubs and bars.

"People should be aware that this is not a victimless crime, their pursuit of a bargain is part of the reason burglary remains a widespread social problem."