Drug packages which have washed up on the Sussex coastline should not be touched, police have advised.

Dozens of packages thought to contain drugs washed up near Ferring earlier today with armed police guarding the site.

Sussex Police have advised people not to touch any drug packages that they may find and to report them to the police instead.

A police spokesman said: "Police were called to Ferring at around midday today to a report of a bag of suspected drugs having washed up on the beach.

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"Officers are in attendance while the package is removed and further enquiries will be carried out alongside the appropriate agencies.

"There will continue to be a significant police presence in the area while we monitor the situation.

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"The public is advised not to touch any other packages they may see wash up, but to report to police immediately via 999."

Coastguard and lifeboat teams are also assisting the ongoing investigation. Two lifeboats have been seen in the water by the beach.