A university sports day descended into violent clashes between rival supporters on Sunday, as students were seen throwing flares and bottles, burning banners and chanting derogatory songs in front of hundreds of spectators.

The clashes between students from the Universities of Sussex and Brighton - who were seen dressed in tribal face paint - resulted in several students being taken to hospital after they were struck with bottles and other projectiles.

Amid the violence, one student is believed to have threatened another with a knife, as stewards and police officers struggled to control supporters on either side.

Police confirmed that a student was arrested on suspicion of carrying a weapon, and has since been released pending further inquiries.