Former model Kristy Green claimed she was sacked by an Oxford photographic firm after bosses discovered her past as a topless model.

Miss Green, 21, from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, joined Gillman and Soame, in Mill Street, Osney, last February, as a trainee.

But she claims she was dismissed after four days because her work experience included modelling as a Page Three girl, where she once posed with a python.

An employment tribunal in Newcastle heard her claim that the Oxford firm, founded in 1840, was guilty of sex discrimination, and a decision is expected by the end of the month.

Miss Green told the tribunal that a man would not have been treated in the same way for posing for similar shots.

But the firm denied her claims and said she was sacked for gross misconduct, including being late for tutorials and failing to wear the company uniform.

Miss Green said: "I'd told them at my interview that I had done topless and calendar work. It either failed to sink in until later or someone higher up did not approve."

She is now awaiting the verdict.

Gillman and Soame specialises in portrait photography.

The company photographs every Oxford University graduate and other clients include members of the Royal College of Music.

The firm also does public relations work and business portraits.

Gillman and Soame's personnel spokesman Janet Bates declined to comment on the case last night.