A consultant gynaecologist has lodged an appeal against his sacking from an East Sussex hospital.

A decision to dismiss Michael Pembrey from the Conquest Hospital in Hastings was overturned on appeal in July 2001 following a technical irregularity.

A fresh inquiry was ordered which found Mr Pembrey, of Saxonwood Road, Battle, had fallen short of his duties.

Mr Pembrey was sacked from the position he had held for 11 years following the year-long investigation into his work.

The initial inquiry, which heard evidence on the treatment of 11 patients, was launched after concerns were raised about his professional conduct and allegations surrounding patient consent.

Officials at the Conquest Hospital dismissed him after considering an independent panel's report but refused to be drawn on the specific nature of the allegations.

A copy of the panel's report now rests with the General Medical Council, which has placed restrictions on Mr Pembrey's practice while it considers its next step.

Meanwhile, the Medical Protection Society confirmed in a brief statement that an appeal had been lodged on behalf of Mr Pembrey with Hastings and Rother NHS Trust.

A trust spokesman said: "As a result of Mr Pembrey's decision to appeal, we will start to set up an appeals procedure."

Mr Pembrey's wife confirmed he was not working but declined to comment further.