He dresses in expensive designer clothes by Armani and Luis Vuitton and stays at the poshest hotels.

But Kevin Castle who hides behind the face of a respectable businessman is a 'millionaire shoplifter' who makes £1,000 (over $2000) a day from his crimes.

British police, who are hunting the well-dressed crook with a taste for the good life, have declared him 'most wanted'.

Castle is being sought by three police forces - Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Nottinghamshire - for shoplifting, identity theft, interception of mail and money laundering.

Police say Britain's top shoplifter (pictured above) always wears expensive designer clothes such as Armani, Luis Vuitton and Versace.

The 42-year-old is known to frequent high-class establishments in London such as the Ritz, Claridges and the Dorchester Hotel.

Castle often uses hire cars and tends to favor large vehicles such as the Porsche Cayenne, VW Touareg SUV and Jaguars.

He is believed to be currently living in London in rented accommodation (possibly costing at least £1,000 (over $2000) per week, say police.

Detective Constable Anita Fishwick, of Lancashire police, said: "This man likes to think he is a criminal mastermind.

"There is no doubt he is Britain's biggest shoplifter. He lives and looks like a millionaire.

"He is a suave, charismatic businessman who has made shoplifting his trade.

"Mr Castle is quite distinctive because of his clothing and his millionaire-type lifestyle.

"We are very keen to trace this man and speak to him in connection with our inquiries."

Castle often targets DIY stores and returns the stolen items with forged till receipts.

He is featured on Lancashire Constabulary's Most Wanted website: http://www.lancashire.police.uk.

- Oct 15, 2007