Time Up For Watch Thief Inside Luxury Gyms

A prolific career criminal who spent years targeting gym users across the City has admitted stealing luxury watches and valuables from lockers at exclusive fitness clubs.

Paul Hughes, 59, preyed on victims while they worked out at private gyms in central London, making off with high-end watches, jewellery, wallets and bank cards. He pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to two counts of theft and one count of fraud.

The charges relate to a luxury watch stolen on November 3, 2025, as well as a second watch, a wedding ring, wallet, driving licence and bank cards taken on February 10 this year. Hughes also admitted using stolen bank cards to withdraw cash.

He had previously pleaded guilty to five further theft offences, including stealing an £8,000 Rolex in July 2024 and a £6,000 Omega Seamaster in October the same year.

Inner London Crown Court heard that between July 2024 and March 2026, Hughes stole watches worth more than £62,000. Among them was a £15,000 timepiece taken from a locker at a gym on Fenchurch Street in February 2025.

City of London Police said CCTV footage showed Hughes entering the gym, picking up a towel to conceal his face, and heading straight for the changing rooms before leaving without using any facilities.

Prosecutor Gregor McKinley told the court Hughes should receive a three-year prison sentence.

Judge Lynn Griffin ordered pre-sentence reports and remanded Hughes in custody ahead of sentencing on June 4.

Hughes has a history of similar offending. In 2015, he was convicted after forcing open lockers at a boutique health club on Ropemaker Street and stealing two watches worth more than £15,000.

Pc Emilie Cox, of the City of London Police volume crime unit, said: "The items he stole were of significant value, and some of the jewellery carried deep sentimental importance for the victims that can never be replaced."

Broadgate Legal