An area was evacuated in West Cliff after concerns over a possible noxious substance in the early hours this morning.

Emergency services attended the scene at West Hill Road and following investigations it was declared safe.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said they received a report of an assault in the hotel at 4.09am this morning.

Officers attended the scene and during the subsequent investigation they became concerned about a possible noxious substance.

The fire service attended and the area was cordoned off and briefly evacuated.

However, the scene was declared safe a short time later.

DI Kate Lill, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I would like to thank the public for their support and patience during the time it took to deal with the incident and allow emergency services to establish that the location was safe.”

A 17-year-old boy from London and a 25-year-old woman of no fixed abode have been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs and are helping officers with their enquiries.