Students and staff at a college in West Sussex are being evacuated following “reports of gunshot fire”.

A man has been detained at the scene in Crawley and two people have suffered injuries, not believed to be serious, police said.

A large police presence is in place near Crawley College and the public is being urged to stay away.

In a statement on Monday afternoon, Sussex Police said: “One man has been detained following reports of shots being fired near Crawley College. Please stay away from the area at this time.

“There is a large police presence at scene and in the local area.”

In a further statement, the force said: “Police have responded to reports of gun shot fire near Crawley College.

“Police received multiple calls shortly after 3.10pm. One man has been detained at the scene by police.

“Staff and students are being evacuated away from the college.

“Two people have suffered injuries, but these are not believed to be serious.”

The college tweeted that it was awaiting further information from police but was not aware of any serious injures.

“Our priority remains the safety of students & staff,” it said.