A man has been arrested on suspicion of running a brothel in a busy high street.

Police raided a flat next door to DNK Hairdressers in Church Road, Hove, on Sunday. Once inside, officers arrested a 37-year-old man who was later questioned and released on bail.

The raid came after a police operation lasting a number of weeks, prompted by concerns raised by local residents.

Mike Weatherley, MP for Hove, said he contacted Sussex Police following complaints from his constituents about the alleged brothel.

He said: “I have intervened on behalf of a variety of Church Road residents to emphasise the seriousness of this matter to Sussex Police. “I have had some alarming allegations from traders and residents, so I’m glad the force has acted so swiftly on the issues raised and am pleased they can now begin their investigation.”

A local resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I got in contact with Mike Weatherley’s office because I didn’t know who to turn to.

“The police are dealing with the allegations and I appreciate they have a job to do in the correct way.” Another local man said: “I was shocked to hear the police raided the place. It’s a leafy part of Hove and you just don’t expect it here.”

A spokesman from Sussex Police said: “On Sunday, May 25 police officers executed a search warrant at an address in Church Road, Hove, and arrested a 37-year old man on suspicion of managing a brothel there. He was interviewed and released on bail until 14 July while enquiries continue.”