A former computer software manager said she had to undergo an emergency triple heart bypass after suffering stress and working up to 80 hours a week.

Cheryl West told Brighton Employment Tribunal her pleas to cut her workload as a software development manager with Fountains plc were ignored.

Mrs West, of Pembroke Crescent, Hove, said she went back to work after the operation but her health continued to deteriorate and her workload was not reduced.

She said she was not given a mobile phone like male managers or access to a management private health care scheme because of her gender.

She resigned in May 2002 after her husband told her she could die if she stayed in the job.

Mrs West alleged she had to work during her convalescence. She said she was overlooked for promotion and only found out about it after the appointment of Iain Smart, who became her line manager.

Mrs West is claiming sex discrimination and constructive dismissal. The case continues.