The group occupy prime spots in the city (Image: Getty)

       A fake begging gang is said to be raking in ￡500 a day as popular spa city is flooded with tourists.

       The group of around 10 men and women are believed to travel to the city centre in a flash Mercedes to prey on residents and visitors in Bath, Somerset.

       The beautiful UK city is known for its famous Roman-built baths and scenic streets, offering an array of shopping and dining.

       But beggars on the street have apparently become a problem, with tourists handing over money to those taking part in the alleged scam.

       Holding cardboard signs, they take turns to beg for money in some of the city's busiest tourist hotsposts, The Sun reports.

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       The city is renowned for its stunning architecture (Image: Getty)

       The group then allegedly returns to their home, 12 miles away at a coucil house tower block in nearby Bristol.

       Local police officers have raised concerns over exploitation, with fears members of the begging gang are being forced to hand over their takings to their bosses.

       Offices acan issue fines and orders for people not to return to an area for up to 48 hours if they suspect anti-social behaviour - but the fines are often left unpaid.

       One member of the group was spotted hiding his designer satchel behind him before removing his shoes and sitting down on a blanket.

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       At lunchtime, two of the women, one pregnant, relaxed on a bench in the warm sun.

       They were joined by two male beggars and a third man sporting sunglasses, a denim hacket and jeans.

       Later, The Sun reports how one gang member drive off in a blue Mercedes with personalised number plate.

       Bath has long been a popular hotspot for tourists, filled with historical sites and fun activities for all ages. As well as the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge also bring in numerous visitors.

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       Some guests had mentioned the "homeless" beggars in reviews on Tripadvisor, claiming people also occupy car parks where they camp in tents.

       Police have estimated "professional beggars" can make more than ￡50 a day, meaning the gang could be making ￡500 a day or even ￡10,000 a month.

       Officers believe regular beggars are making more than workers by preying on the public.

       An official Big Issue seller in the city said: "They take money away from genuinely homeless people. I see people put ￡20 in their laps then walk straight past me. It’s not right. The police should do something."

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