A hospital doctor has been sacked for bedding one of his patients.

Dr Mardan Mahmood, 54, was dismissed from the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton when his lover tipped off managers after ending their three-year affair.

The woman claimed Dr Mahmood, who worked in the hospital's haematology unit, pressured her into a relationship after chatting her up during a consultation.

She is taking legal action to recover thousands of pounds, which she claims he borrowed.

Dr Mahmood denies owing money and said he would be lodging an appeal against his dismissal.

Dr Mahmood is also accused of drawing up prescriptions for himself.

A hospital spokesman said: "This has been thoroughly investigated and appropriate action has been taken."