Detectives have arrested a 55-year-old man over historical child sex allegations allegedly committed at a village church up to 35 years ago.

He was held on suspicion of sexually assaulting a boy then aged between nine and 11 at St Margaret's Church in Warnham and elsewhere between 1981 and 1983.

The man, now living in Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, was arrested on Tuesday by Sussex Police detectives before being bailed to November 28 pending further inquiries.

Police are seeking information about further alleged offences committed against other boys during the same period, and are working with the Diocese of Chichester.

Detective Superintendent Jason Tingley appealed for anyone with information to call Sussex Police on 101, quoting Operation Barnwood.

A Diocese of Chichester spokesman said: "We are co-operating fully with this investigation by Sussex Police and hope that anyone with relevant information will come forward and contact the police."