A TEENAGER has been detained after "suspicious articles" were found at Brighton Station early this morning.

Police confirmed with The Argus that a 17-year-old male from Peacehaven was apprehended with a suspicious-looking bag.

Police cordoned off about half the forecourt initially after being called just after 4am but it is open now.

An Army bomb disposal van was sent to the scene and firefighters were assisting.

The fire service said there was no immediate risk to the public.

One user on Twitter said: "Odd to have the Navy bomb squad channelling passengers through one entrance at Brighton station this morning."

Another said: "Wondering what's this about a man being searched or being looked for with bag of explosives and knives."

A Southern Railway spokesman confirmed that the station was closed at 4.10am for 15 minutes but said there was "no effect on train services".

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: "Police went to an address in Collingwood Close, Peacehaven, yesterday at 7.20pm after concern had been expressed for the welfare of a 17-year-old boy living there, who was reported to have been in possession of a quantity of chemicals which had the potential to harm him. Officers entered the property but nobody was present.

"He was later arrested at 3.45am today at Brighton Station on suspicion of threats to commit criminal damage and possession of a class A drug.

"A bag he was carrying was cordoned off at the station and East Sussex Fire and Rescue and the bomb disposal unit were called to the scene.

"The bag was found to contain some chemicals which were all contained separately and were not mixed or considered to be dangerous.

"There were no explosives and this is not a firearms or a terrorist incident.

"They have now been removed and the station concourse re-opened at 8.30am.

"The 17-year-old Peacehaven boy remains in custody."