The mystery surrounding a sign which advertised a "designated mugging zone" has been cleared up.

Yesterday, a member of the public was shocked to come across the sign which had been placed in Watford high street between Poundworld and McDonalds.

The sign featured an image of a hooded person taking the bag from a elderly lady.

However, it has been confirmed that the "fake" sign was put up by a filming company, without permission.

Alan Gough, head of community and environmental services at Watford Borough Council said: “This fake sign was put up by a film company without the council’s permission and it has been removed.

"Fortunately, in Watford mugging is not a big issue. The vast majority of film companies who come to Watford work really well with both us and the police but this company has been completely irresponsible. They have now left the town.”