Unions claim the service is stretched to breaking point

Staff absence due to sickness meant about 100 managers were on standby to deal with emergencies on Monday night.

The public service union Unison said there should have been seven ambulances on duty to cover Brighton, Hove, Shoreham and Heathfield.

But none were available when the evening shift began at 1900 GMT.

'Regrettable' decision

Unison has said the situation is fresh evidence the service is stretched to breaking point.

Duncan Jones, from Unison, said: "There was a severe shortage of ambulance cover in and around the area of Brighton and Hove on Monday night.

"Brighton should have had three night vehicles and did not put any out.

"Hove should have put out two and likewise did not put out any."

Duncan Jones said there was a severe shortage of ambulance cover

Mr Jones said in Shoreham and Heathfield ambulances which were supposed to cover the area did not go out either.

In a statement Sussex Ambulance Trust said: "The situation on Monday evening was difficult and regrettable.

"We did have significant shortages around Brighton, mainly due to sickness absence among our staff.

"This did not mean, however, the area was left uncovered.

"Resources from other areas were moved around to ensure emergency cover was provided right across Sussex."

Mr Jones said the service needed additional funding and a change in management emphasis away from ticking boxes to concentrate more on patient care.

The ambulance trust said it recognised the genuine pressure the staff were under due to the increasing levels of demand.