Doctors and nurses will be able to learn whether a patient has a history of violence because a note will be made on their records.

The plan is part of a drive to reduce the number of attacks on medical staff in Brighton and Hove.

The violent patient marker ensures that if a patient is aggressive in one practice, other practices and health workers who may have to deal with that person are aware.

Brighton and Hove City Primary Care Trust is to consider adopting the policy at its next meeting on Tuesday.

In the last 12 months, 25 patients in Brighton and Hove were removed from GPs' lists due to violence.

GP Michael Edwards, who has been attacked by a patient in the past: "Anything that can help protect GPs and other workers has to be welcomed."