A DOCTOR who was told to "retire" by his colleagues has been exonerated after an investigation.

North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust found no evidence of wrongdoing by Dr Tim Pearson, a former GP at the Friary Surgery, in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

An investigation was launched after Dr Pearson, 43, received a letter in March last year from his two partners at the surgery, informing him that he had to retire.

The practice has given no explanation for the decision.

The nature of the allegations against him has not been made public, but Dr Pearson said the letter followed a minor clerical issue.

He is still working within the NHS.

A spokesman for the primary care trust said: "Following allegations made against Dr Timothy Pearson, formerly of the Friary Surgery, Richmond, by his former partners, North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust can confirm that no evidence has been found to support any of these allegations.

"Throughout the process, Dr Pearson has worked closely with the trust to ensure that a thorough and robust investigation was carried out.

"We are pleased to confirm that the investigation revealed no evidence of any wrongdoing on the part of Dr Pearson. In fact, all allegations have proved to be without any basis."

Dr Pearson declined to comment, other than to say he was extremely pleased with the outcome. He also thanked friends, former patients and members of the community for their support.

The doctor's "retirement"

angered his former patients, who launched a campaign in support of the GP.

About 70 members of the Justice for Dr Pearson group protested outside the surgery against his departure.

Following the controversy, Quakers Lane GP, in Richmond, surgery was forced to close its books for several months after a number of Dr Pearson's former patients transferred from the Friary practice.

A statement issued last night by the Justice for Dr Pearson group said: "We are absolutely delighted that Dr Pearson has finally been fully exonerated by the primary care trust investigation.

"Knowing Dr Pearson as we do we have, from the start, been absolutely convinced of his innocence.

"This was why so many people joined the campaign in his support and registered their disgust at the disgraceful treatment of an honourable man and a fine GP."

A spokeswoman for the Friary Surgery said the surgery had not seen the report so was unable to comment.