Armed police stormed a homeless hostel to seize a man seen brandishing a gun.

Several police units were sent to deal with the incident in Kingsway, Hove, shortly before 2pm on Sunday.

Police officers surrounded St Catherine's Lodge before moving in to arrest the culprit.

A witness said: "There were police officers everywhere - it was clear something big was happening."

A Sussex Police spokesman said a man had been arrested in possession of what appeared to be a handgun.

The weapon was later discovered to be a plastic replica and the man has since been released on bail pending a further enquiry.

One witness, who had a disabled friend living in the 40-bedroom hostel at the time, revealed the man may have been a member of staff.

He said some of the guests had gone down to the front desk of the Victorian building to complain about a lack of hot water and electricity.

According to the eye witness, a row then ensued between the guests and the member of staff, who pulled out the weapon and threatened them before police were called in.

The council declined to comment on the incident yesterday.