POLICE have launched an operation at a Southampton ferry terminal.

Bystanders reported "much excitement" after officers were seen on a boat at Town Quay near the Red Funnel terminal.

Etch UK managing director Thomas Frame said: "We were looking out of the window and about four guys stormed one of the ferries.

"We’re in Medina Chambers, half way along the quay and right above the Red Jet.”

A Hampshire Police spokeswoman told the Daily Echo that the operation was a "routine training exercise" and that members of the public should not be concerned.