An MP has called on Health Secretary Alan Milburn to intervene to alleviate an unprecedented summer bed-blocking crisis at a hospital.

More than 70 beds, the equivalent of two wards, are being taken up at Eastbourne District General Hospital by patients fit for discharge but who have nowhere suitable to go.

The crisis has prompted managers to predict the hospital could grind to a halt in the winter if the number continues to rise.

Eastbourne Tory MP Nigel Waterson has now challenged Mr Milburn to pledge more money to pay for care after patients have been discharged to free up the beds.

He said: "When I raised the issue in a Commons debate last year, ministers provided some extra money to pay for care after patients were discharged.

"Now that cash has run out with some very serious results. This is unheard of during the summer months. If it is so bad now, what is going to happen when winter comes?"

He echoed the grim predictions from the medical profession by saying the bed-blocking would have a serious impact on waiting lists in Eastbourne, with operations possibly delayed or cancelled.

He said: "That is why I have written to Alan Milburn asking how he plans to alleviate this summer crisis before we are faced with an even worse situation as the colder months approach."

Chief nurse Martin Smits said: "The problem of delayed discharges is becoming a constant issue for us to deal with and not only during the winter.

"It's difficult to explain to patients why they cannot go home or be transferred to more appropriate care."