Kerb crawlers at bay after city prostitution crackdown

Humberside Police said there has been a 70 per cent reduction in people visiting the area to solicit sex since the launch of a targeted operation in December last year.

Sex workers have also reported they are spending less time working on the street.

A total of 20 men were arrested during an initial clampdown, which saw undercover officers posing as prostitutes, the first time the tactic has been used in Hull.

The force said undercover officers will be deployed again to gather evidence against offenders.

Those arrested for soliciting are being sent to specialist education programmes designed to change their behaviour.

Det Chief Insp Alastair O'Neil said: "This is an ongoing operation aimed at answering concerns of the local community around anti social behaviour caused by sex workers and their clients.

"We are committed to the community and determined to tackle these issues and improve conditions for those living in the affected areas.

"We are sending out a strong message that allowing a thriving street sex industry to continue in Hull is no longer an option.

"There are many vulnerable young people at risk of being enticed into this way of life, it is vital for their health and well-being that we stop that happening."

He added: "This is a squalid, sordid business which has no place on the streets of Hull.

"It has negative impact on all of those involved – these workers suffer a largely miserable existence driven by dependence on Class A drugs.

"My message to those working in the sex trade is to engage with the many support agencies available to help you seek a way out of this lifestyle."

Residents have complained of problems including public sex acts, noise and disorder, litter caused by used condoms and drug equipment, and intimidation by prostitutes and kerb crawlers.

Det Chief Insp O'Neil issued a warning to kerb crawlers: "If you return to Hull cruising the streets expect to be arrested, because your behaviour is unacceptable."