Nurses say there has not been proper consultation on the plans

It will be replaced by an on-call system where nurses will work from 0830 GMT until 1700 GMT and then be on call until 2200 GMT on a rota basis.

Those doing the evening shift at present are being offered alternative hours.

The changes are being made as part of moves to help pay debts totalling �31m which the county's health trusts currently have.

Proper consultation

The debts were passed on to the trusts when they took over from the old Health Authority. The trusts are now attempting to find the money while trying to maintain services.

Local GPs, patients and unions are opposing the changes, which will come into effect in January 2004.

Nursing representatives say there has not been proper consultation.

The Community and District Nurses Association says it is a "total disgrace" and has accused managers of demoralising staff and downgrading patient care.

Members say they will fight the decision.

The health community in Cornwall consists of the three primary healthcare trusts and the Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust, supported by the South West Peninsula Health Authority.