There was an increase of almost 70 per cent in the number of prostitute cautions issued by the Loxford police team last year.

In 2012, Loxford Safer Neighbourhood Team issued 232 cautions to prostitutes, up from 138 the previous year, an increase of 68 per cent.

The rise is partially explained by proactive action by the police team including Operation Clear Light, which has resulted in 32 arrests.

The team also targeted burglaries in the ward, resulting in a 17 per cent reduction in burglary last year compared to 2011.