the recent rise of visitor crimes.

Mr. George Wardman, a director of Horizons Ltd. which operates the upmarket Horizons and Cottages, Newstead, Waterloo House and Coral Beach Club, said security has been doubled in their guest houses due to the Island's level of crime.

"It is really an epidemic and we are terribly concerned. We think there may be an organised crime ring because of the amount of crime. Thieves are now prepared to take anything,'' Mr. Wardman said.

"There has been a change in what people are taking. We have had an increase in security and we will be increasing it more around Christmas time.

"So far we have taken action by eliminating sliding glass doors and installing room safes and locks on windows and doors.'' Mr. Wardman also said lighting has been increased and panic buttons have been placed behind front desks.

Mr. Wardman's wife and co-worker Mrs. Claudia Wardman said: "We were worried about our guests being attacked on pathways. Frightening things have happened which will eventually make guests say they will never come back again.'' She added the upgrading of security has been tremendously expensive "but we are really determined to make it safe for our guests''.

A spokesperson for the Belmont Hotel said they have already upgraded security.

"We have taken the appropriate steps to make sure our hotel is safe for our guests,'' he said.

But a spokesperson at the Hamilton Princess said the level of security has not changed since the recent increase in crime.

However, a security guard at the Southampton Princess said the level of security is always high.

Mermaid Beach Club owner Mr. Brian Alkon said the guest house has always had security.

"We are trying to do our best but as good as you think you are you are not that great,'' he said. "Police are doing a good job and they are always coming around, however, we may bring in a dog for more protection.'' Mr. Alkon also said that due to the increase in crime the club was now back to almost full-time security.

Managing director of the Sonesta Beach Hotel Mr. David Boyd said: "We have had an adequate security staff on all year and we have not had anything happen at the hotel recently.'' He added that there were more Police patrols on the hotel grounds.