Pro-life groups have attacked a website which allows women to book an abortion consultation in Brighton.

The service is available on the Marie Stopes International (MSI) website.

A spokeswoman for Marie Stopes confirmed women could arrange appointments at the organisation's Brighton Pregnancy Advice Bureau.

After an ultrasound scan and medical history checks, a termination could be arranged at one of MSI's seven abortion centres.

A spokeswoman for MSI, which performs more than 35,000 abortions a year in Britain, said: "Women have been requesting online booking from MSI for some time.

"The idea of being able to read unbiased information about abortion and then make an appointment for a consultation from home, work or an internet cafe is obviously very appealing."

Site users can book appointments at any of the 21 pregnancy advice centres across England.

But Michaela O'Sullivan, chair of the Brighton branch of anti-abortion group Life, said: "I'm horrified.

"To be able to book on an impersonal basis is frightening.

"This makes it just too easy."

The online booking service is only available to women paying privately, with consultations costing £50 and abortions £300 to £700.

www.mariestopes.org.uk