Over three million Britons have admitted to damaging hotel rooms, according to new research.

The study, undertaken by More Than, found 80 per cent of people admitted to taking hotel property as a memento.

Certain items were more popular for taking than others including towels and stationary. Bathrobes also proved a very popular steal with £5 million worth being stolen in the UK in the last five years.

This recent trend has led insurers like More Than to come up with specific insurance aimed to ensure that small businesses do not suffer from vandalism and petty theft.

Rachel Cotton, small business manager at More Than insurance, said: " Even a limited amount of damage can have considerable consequences for a small hotel or guesthouse."

The new insurance from More Than will include a 24-hour claims helpline for small businesses coping with vandalism or theft and free professional help.

More Than is also warning of other insurance risks this week with the latest government crime figures showing that street crime is on the increase.