A property in Market Street was investigated by police following complaints about anti-social behaviour and concerns that it was allegedly being used as a brothel.

Officers from Watford’s Safer Neighbourhood Team executed a Closure Order at the address earlier this week, prohibiting anyone from entering the property for a three-month period. Anyone who breaches the order can be arrested.

Sydney Walsh, 57, of Market Street, was arrested on suspicion of managing a brothel and possession of class A (cocaine) and class B (cannabis) drugs. He was released on bail pending further enquiries and, on November 29, was charged with assisting in the management of a brothel and possession of a controlled drug (cannabis).

He appeared at Hatfield Remand Court where he was remanded into custody to appear before Harrow Crown Court on January 3.

A 30-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug (cocaine) and was given a police caution.

A 44-year-old man from Hemel Hempstead was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug (cocaine) and was given a caution.

Support and advice was offered to six women at the property.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Tom Fisher said: “Alongside our partner agencies we have been responding to complaints about the address for several months. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated in Watford and we hope that by taking action to close the property we can provide neighbours and the wider community with some respite.

“This is great example of how the new Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act has given us greater powers so that we can take action against anti-social behaviour and improve the quality of life for our local communities.

“If anyone has any concerns about the behaviour at properties in their area, I would urge them to please contact police.”

The Closure Order was applied for after a warrant was executed by police at the property back in October when three people were arrested.