Protesters support sacked nurse

Ms Reissmann was found guilty of gross misconduct by the trust

Up to 200 protesters marched through Manchester in support of a psychiatric nurse who claims she was sacked for speaking out against cuts in services.

Karen Reissmann was joined by demonstrators from across the UK for the city centre protest.

She was dismissed earlier this month after being found guilty of gross misconduct by Manchester's Mental Health and Social Care Trust.

The move has sparked an indefinite strike by more than 100 nursing staff.

Talks between health managers and union bosses are to take place to try to end the industrial action by the community psychiatric workers, who carry out home and work visits.

Today hundreds will unite to send a powerful message that our NHS is at risk Karen Reissmann

Ms Reissmann was suspended in June for allegedly bringing a health trust into disrepute.

She claimed she was suspended for speaking out against job cuts and government policies.

The NHS Trust has said the sacking was made for gross misconduct after a full examination of the facts in a formal disciplinary hearing and that the reason was a private employment matter.

Speaking before the march, Ms Reissmann said: "I was sacked because I care about the NHS.

"Today hundreds will unite to send a powerful message that our NHS is at risk and we must do everything in our power to protect it."

The march, which started and ended in the Peace Gardens, and followed a route along Cross Street and Deansgate.