Armed police arrested a man suspected of having a gun in a busy Hove street near two schools as hundreds of children left school for the day this afternoon (Tuesday 4 October).

A man was reported to have had a gun on view in Portland Road, Hove, near the corner of Westbourne Street just before 3.30pm.

The school day ended at Hove Infant School at 3.15pm and at Hove Junior School at 3.20pm.

Sussex Police said: “At 3.29pm on Tuesday 4 October we received reports that a man had been seen waving what was described as a small hand gun, in Portland Road, Hove, by a bus stop near the Co-op. He was seen to walk away up Rutland Road.

“Officers searched the area and shortly after 4.40pm a man was arrested by armed officers in a nearby street.

“There were no shots and no injuries.

“Inquiries are taking place to establish the full circumstances. A nearby address is currently being searched. A weapon has not yet been found but there is no suggestion of any terrorist motive.”