Pubs and nightclubs across Sussex are to shut at different times on New Year's Eve, leading to fears of confusion across the county.

The Home Office has failed in its bid to repeat a blanket order which last year allowed all licensed premises to stay open for a 36-hour drinking session.

The deadline to introduce the legislation has passed, with the Home Office blaming a House of Lords committee for the delay. Jack Straw had hoped to extend licensing hours to run from 11am on New Year's Eve to 11pm on New Year's Day.

Because December 31 falls on a Sunday, certain pubs could decide to shut at 10.30pm.

Some towns in Sussex have obtained magistrates' orders allowing them to stay open until 2am on New Year's Day but others will have to close at 1am.

It is down to the Licensed Victuallers Association to apply for late licences on behalf of members and non-member pubs can then ask for the same shutting time.

In Brighton - which is hosting an open-air New Year's Eve party at the Old Steine - party-goers will able to drink until 2am as will revellers in East Grinstead, Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill. But in Lewes, Uckfield and Crowborough closing time will be an hour earlier.

Colin Millham, chairman of Brighton and Hove LVA, said: "It seems somewhat farcical that some places like Brighton get a 2am closing time but others don't. I think it would be a good idea if we had a blanket time like last year all over the country because at least people would know where they stood."

Because of Sunday Observance laws, nightclubs and pubs will not technically be allowed to charge punters for entertainment like bands.

Brighton licensing officer Coreen Plympton said the police were asking pubs and nightclubs to use plastic glasses and employ bouncers on New Year's Eve.

She said: "We will work with licensees to make sure it is a fun evening, safe and properly regulated."

The Place To Be campaign for city status has been awarded a £70,000 Lottery grant to host a New Year's Eve event in Brighton.