A man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm after a two hour stand off at a block of flats.

Armed officers and the police helicopter were called to Etchingham Road, Eastbourne, after reports of a group of youths with baseball bats and possibly a handgun.

Officers surrounded Hampshire Court at just after 8pm and advised people to remain in their homes until the matter was resolved.

Just before 10.10pm, armed officers moved into the block and within minutes removed a man from one of the flats.

A police dog was sent in to search the remainder of the premises, but there was nobody else within.

In a statement, Detective Superintendent Nick May said: "I would like to thank everyone for their patience while we carried out our operation to contain this matter.

"I appreciate that the sight of armed officers and the police helicopter may have been disturbing, if not alarming for local residents, but it is important that we treat reports such as these seriously for the safety of everyone concerned.

"Thankfully, nobody was hurt and we managed to bring the incident to a fairly swift conclusion.

"A man is in custody and we will continue with our investigation locally to establish the circumstances, which include discovering who else was involved.

"However, we do not believe that they are a threat to the public and people can now move freely in the area again.

"The scene has been secured and a marked vehicle will remain in place overnight before we resume our search of the premises in the morning.

"If you witnessed any of the events prior to the police arriving or you have any information about the incident or the people involved, please contact us."

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police via email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting serial 1438 of May 3.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111  or via crimestoppers-uk.org

A 34-year-old man of no fixed address, arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and affray, remains in custody.