Health services in Sussex will get an extra £88 million next year.

Health Secretary Alan Milburn announced a £1.1 billion funding package for the county's two health authorities.

East Sussex, Brighton and Hove Health Authority will get £594.5 million in the next financial year - a rise of eight per cent on 2000/01.

West Sussex Health Authority will get about £555.6 million, an 8.55 per cent rise.

The Government says it will wage war against cancer and heart disease, target health problems caused by deprivation and cut waiting lists.

A spokesman for West Sussex Health Authority said: "The health authority welcomes the additional monies being made available but is currently awaiting further details about what it will mean for the people of West Sussex."

East Sussex, Brighton and Hove Health Authority declined to comment before it had confirmation of the figures.

Mr Milburn also announced a £65 million pot of cash to pay 100,000 nurses more money if they work in expensive areas.

However, the Health Department has yet to confirm whether Sussex will be included.

Announcing the settlement yesterday, Mr Milburn said: "The NHS has the best opportunity it has ever had to bring about radical changes needed to give patients better, faster services."