A sacked Eastbourne office worker with learning difficulties who was dismissed after pushing three colleagues wants his job back.

David Hobbs, 47, was punished for violent behaviour at the Dental Practice Board in Eastbourne after working there for 14 years.

He is claiming at an employment tribunal he was unfairly sacked and suffered discrimination on the grounds of his disability.

He denies being aggressive and claims he was bullied and humiliated by colleagues.

Mr Hobbs, of Marlow Avenue, Eastbourne, who was born with a mental disability, admits pushing his former colleagues but denies using his fists and claims he only reacted because they were picking on him.

The board, based in Compton Park Avenue, denies his allegations. It says Mr Hobbs was treated more favourably than a non-disabled person.

The Brighton tribunal heard he was sacked after an investigation because the board had a duty to protect its staff. It said there was no evidence Mr Hobbs had been provoked.

Terry Brooks, a porter, said he was pushed by Mr Hobbs in October 2000. The confrontation happened after he blamed Mr Hobbs for making him late preparing a room.

The hearing continues today.