Hundreds of female genital mutilation cases referred to the Met without a single successful prosecution

Just under 750 cases of female genital mutilation were referred to the Met Police over the last five years, though prosecutors are still yet to make a conviction.

According to figures obtained by ITV News, 748 people have approached authorities with fears over victims or potential victims since 2013.

But only 37 cases have been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service in almost 10 years, and prosecutors have only managed to bring two cases to court. All of those resulted in acquittals.

Nearly half of all cases of FGM in England are believed to have been recorded in London.

Cris McCurley, a family lawyer who specialises in abuse cases and has worked with families affected, told ITV News she's "hopeful" more convictions will come.

FGM refers to any procedure that intentionally alters a female's genitals for non-medical reasons. It has been illegal in the UK since 1985.

In 2015, new protection orders were introduced to strengthen the laws on FGM, something prosecutors say is helping protect more women at risk.

The Met also said it is holding regular operations at airports and working with international partners in countries where the practice is believed to take place.

Norbury School, in Harrow, has begun running specialist lessons teaching children in reception classes about the dangers of FGM.

The school teaches pupils from dozens of nationalities.