The bodies of three women have been recovered from the sea off Brighton.

Sussex Police said emergency services were called after concerns were raised for the women’s welfare at around 5.45am on Wednesday, and their bodies were pulled from the water near Madeira Drive.

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays said the coastguard is completing an “extensive search of the water”, but the force is not searching for anyone else.

The officer said CCTV inquiries are being carried out.

Following the incident, Hays said: “This is a tragic incident and fast-moving inquiries are ongoing to confirm the identities of these three women and understand exactly what has happened.

“I know this is concerning for the community, but I would ask the public to stay away from the scene at this time while emergency services continue their work.

“We will provide further updates as soon as they are available.”