As part of this, Chichester District Council has decided to temporarily close its East Wittering beach until the substance is identified.

Havant Borough Council, West Wittering Estate and Cakeham Manor have also taken this action and closed their beaches.

A spokesperson for Chichester District Council says: "We are closing the beach as a precaution. The unidentified foam-like substance was discovered earlier today. The Environment Agency has taken samples to test. We should know the outcome of these tests within the next 48 hours.

"Following this time, we will decide on what action to take. Local residents can keep updated by visiting our website where we will post the latest position."

Paul Reynolds, Senior Environment Officer at the Environment Agency, says: "Our officers are on site sampling the material to find out what it is. As yet, there has been no apparent evidence of impact on wildlife. Once we know what the substance is we will be able to advise on action to take and appropriate disposal options for the material."