Groups of men visiting a brothel based in a Finchley flat are intimidating people living in the block.

Residents believe a group of prostitutes moved into one of the flats in Regent Court, Ballards Lane, after the owner moved out about three months ago.

At least three women are thought to live there permanently and receive male clients throughout the day and late into the night.

One resident, who didn't want to be named, said: "The residents here are living in fear because of the number of unknown men who are entering the block at all hours.

"We have single women and elderly people who are scared to enter the lift when these men are present, and we can't challenge people because we don't know how they will react."

The brothel promotes itself as a 24/7 massage service, offering "friendly ladies" and providing "in/out calls".

A call to the advertised mobile number confirmed sexual services could be provided by the women, who were of Japanese and Thai origin.

Police raided the flats about three weeks ago and four people were arrested for immigration offences, but all have been bailed and allowed to return to the address.

PC Ryan Lamb from the Finchley Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: "Anyone who is concerned with the activities should call the police so we can stop people going in, embarrass them and disrupt the business.

"We are speaking with landlords and letting agents so they can have a hand in stopping it."

A council spokesman said its community protection group would look into the premises and give police any information they found, but stressed the group had no powers to tackle the problem.