POLICE are investigating after a woman came into contact with an "unknown substance" and suffered breathing difficulties.

The incident took place at Swanage railway station this morning.

Dorset Police was called to the scene at 7.12am by the ambulance service, with reports suggesting two other members of the public were also experiencing similar symptoms.

Officers attended with hazardous materials experts from the fire service.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "A cordon was put in place as a precaution and the substance was contained.

"The people affected are not believed to be in a serious condition and did not require hospital treatment. An investigation is ongoing to establish what the substance is, at this stage it is believed to be some kind of incapacitant spray.

"The scene has been stood down and there is not believed to be any wider risk to members of the public."