An operation to stop foreign students becoming the victims of hate crime has been launched.

More than 16,000 pupils visit Eastbourne each summer to study at the town's numerous language schools.

The number reaches its peak in mid-summer and Sussex Police have introduced Operation Columbus to cut down on the number who are attacked or robbed in the resort.

Chief Inspector Martin Stevens, Eastbourne borough commander, said: "Operation Columbus is vital to a town such as Eastbourne, which sees thousands of foreign students visiting between April and September every year.

"Many of these students are vulnerable because of their age, understanding of English or lack of knowledge about English law.

"It is important that they recognise that we take their safety seriously."

The operation has been running for a number of years and is a force-wide initiative, stretching the length of the coast from Hastings to Worthing.

Officers provide language schools with multilingual videos and leaflets on English law and what to do in the event of a crime.

This year, community street wardens will also be used in the fight against racist crime, patrolling areas of the town popular with foreign students.

Trish Pybous, crime prevention co-ordinator, said: "Columbus is about providing reassurance to our student visitors.

"Eastbourne is a friendly town and it is important that visitors feel safe while they are here.

"Our highly visible presence not only helps in this aim, but it also ensures we are very close to the problems when they do occur."

Last week, officers involved in the operation arrested two teenagers on suspicion of assault after a 14-year-old German student was robbed in the town.