Hitchin alley urinating down after photos released by police

The number of people using the alley as a makeshift toilet has dropped since the publication of the images

The number of people caught urinating in a secluded alley has dropped considerably after police published photographs of the perpetrators.

Hertfordshire Police began publishing images of those using West Alley in Hitchin as a makeshift toilet in 2015.

In 2014, there were 27 reports of anti-social behaviour compared to five in 2016 and none so far this year, according to officers.

Anyone caught could also face a fine of up to £90.

The CCTV images were released by police in September 2015

Sgt Stephen Oliphant warned officers would "continue to monitor and release CCTV images of anyone believed to be using West Alley as a toilet".

Police also stepped up "high visibility patrols" in the area, and he said this would continue in "the longer evenings and warmer months approaching".

West Alley is tucked away yet close to pubs and clubs in the town.

Residents living in flats close by, reported people using the area to urinate. CCTV cameras also picked up other problems including drug activity, rowdy behaviour and graffiti.