An office worker with learning difficulties who was sacked after pushing three colleagues has reached a financial settlement with his ex-bosses.

David Hobbs, 47, of Marlow Avenue, Eastbourne, made a claim for compensation at an employment tribunal.

He claimed he was unfairly sacked and suffered discrimination on the grounds of his disability.

The Dental Practice Board (DPB) in Eastbourne, where he worked for 14 years, denied the allegations.

But on the second day of the tribunal hearing, the two sides agreed a settlement and the case was withdrawn.

The confidential agreement includes a financial settlement.

Mr Hobbs, who was born with a mental disability, originally wanted his job back. He denied being aggressive and claimed he was bullied and humiliated by colleagues.

He admitted pushing his former colleagues following a mix-up in October 2000 over a set of keys. He denied using his fists.

The DPB, based in Compton Park Avenue, said Mr Hobbs was dismissed for violent conduct after an investigation.

It said there was no evidence Mr Hobbs had been provoked although he may have been teased.

During the hearing Terry Brooks, a porter, who was pushed by Mr Hobbs, said he made monkey faces and actions at Mr Hobbs to amuse him.

Raff Tranza, who represented Mr Hobbs at the Brighton hearing, said his client was pleased to have reached a settlement.