From Friday a 178-year-old law which makes it illegal to beg in a public place is being used to a stop offenders.

The 1824 Vagrancy Act allows officers to arrest them and take them before magistrates.

Chief Inspector Alan Jarman said the tougher approach is needed to control the increasing number of vagrants becoming violent when passers-by refuse them money.

Track offenders

"The public have had enough. I will not allow people to be intimidated when they want to use Cambridge."

Reports have shown beggars in Cambridge can make around £50 an hour, which police have said is often used to buy drink and drug habits.

Patrol officers are being told to arrest anyone who appears to be breaking the law and CCTV will track offenders through the city's streets.

Chief Inspector Jarman said urged people not to give money to beggars.

"If in the short term that means crossing the road to avoid confrontation do it, but let us know so we can take action."