Three young people have been taken into custody following claims a woman was attacked and a dog was struck outside a food store in Newhaven.

Sussex Police reported the events occurred in Newhaven High Street at approximately 8pm on Monday, August 24.

Footage that circulated widely online appeared to depict a woman being attacked outside the Morrisons branch before a store employee intervened.

Officers have now detained three individuals over the matter.

A 16-year-old male from Hassocks and a 17-year-old female from Brighton were held on suspicion of common assault, assault causing actual bodily harm, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and shoplifting.

Both have been granted conditional bail as investigations proceed.

A 15-year-old female from Brighton was additionally detained on suspicion of assault causing actual bodily harm and remains with officers.

Lewes Neighbourhood Policing Inspector John Adams stated that prompt action had been taken following the events and three individuals had been apprehended.

He explained that inquiries were ongoing to determine the complete details of what occurred.

He acknowledged that the footage circulating online may have disturbed those who viewed it, and urged anyone with information or relevant recordings to make contact.

The events provoked strong reactions across social media platforms, with numerous individuals offering support to the woman and her pet while commending the store employee who intervened.

A crowdfunding initiative established after the events had accumulated £585 towards its £1,000 goal by Wednesday afternoon.

The page was created by local residents Sarah Edwards and Sarah Jane Woolgar for the reported victim, identified as Sarah Carron.

In a statement on the fundraising page, Ms Edwards alleged that Ms Carron had sustained dental injuries and that her dog, Hugo, had been struck while defending her.

Ms Edwards stated that Sarah had several teeth dislodged and that Hugo was kicked repeatedly for attempting to shield his owner.

She noted she had grown up in Newhaven and continued to work in the area.

She expressed that the footage had left her furious that such an incident could occur during a simple shopping trip.

She explained she felt compelled to take action to demonstrate that the video did not reflect the Newhaven she was familiar with.

Anyone with information or relevant footage is asked to contact Sussex Police via their website or by telephoning 101, quoting reference 1438 of 24/08.