Police have closed a suspected brothel in Birkenhead using powers under the Sexual Offences Act.

Mr Magoo's at Grange Road East was given a closure order at Wirral magistrates court on Thursday.

The application was made by police after three people were charged with keeping a brothel following raids in June.

They have been bailed to appear before magistrates on Friday,  August 8.

District judge Michael Abelson was satisfied closure orders were necessary to prevent the premises being used for prostitution.

The orders prohibit anyone from remaining at or entering the premsies - anyone doing so faces arrest.

Detective Superintendent Richie Davies said: "This is the first property in Birkenhead to be closed using this legislation, which is designed specifically to target brothels that are making illegal financial gain.

"Our investigation has centred around those who manage this property, and not the women who work there.

"Merseyside Police is determined to prosecute those people who make large sums of money from illegal activity, which is often due to the exploitation of others.

"We will strive to use all legal means to deal with people and behaviour that has a negative impact on people's quality of life.

"Residents should be reassured that when they provide us with information of this nature that we will do all that we can to act on it when possible."

Acting Sergeant Andrew McNamee said: "These closure orders are part of a comprehensive approach to the policing of prostitution at these properties.

"Other interventions have been executed such as warrants, arrests resulting in subsequent charges and convictions as a result of prostitution related activities at these addresses.

"This process was a team effort, which involved members of Merseyside Police and Wirral Council all working together to achieve one goal.”