Police say an investigation into a couple having sex in full public view is ongoing, despite claims officers failed to deal properly with the incident.

The man and woman, described as both being in their mid-20s with dark hair, were seen having intercourse by hundreds of people at around 7.30pm in the middle of George Green in Wanstead.

Witnesses said the police twice asked the couple to move on, but did not take any further action despite the couple continuing to have sex when the officers left.

A Met spokesman declined to comment on the alleged police inaction, saying the investigation had not been completed into the incident.

He said: “Police were called to George Green, Wanstead, on Tuesday at about 7.20pm to reports of couple engaged in sexual activity.

“Officers spoke to the man and woman at the scene and they were asked to leave the area.

“Officers remained in the area for a time afterwards and conducted patrols.

“The local policing team is aware of the incident and will be making further enquiries and speaking to local people.”