A BUSY high street was closed off as police swooped in over fears about a woman in distress.

Officers and paramedics were called to Shoreham High Street this morning.

Witnesses reported seeing a woman being held down by officers.

Images from the scene show officers holding someone on the ground, with ambulances waiting nearby.

It is understood a woman was taken from the scene in an ambulance.

Police and paramedics were called over reports of a woman in distress in Shoreham High Street

Police and paramedics were called over reports of a woman in distress in Shoreham High Street

There were reports of traffic in the town backing up in both directions.

Police and paramedics were called over reports of a woman in distress in Shoreham High Street

Police and paramedics were called over reports of a woman in distress in Shoreham High Street

At least two ambulances were seen, and four police patrol cars were also called in.

A statement from Sussex Police with full details is expected later.