A SURGEON appeared before magistrates yesterday accused of the manslaughter of a patient.

Pravin Chaturabi Patel, 51, of Kenton Road, Harrow, Middlesex, was not asked to plead to the unlawful killing of Andrew Ryan, 20.

Mr Ryan, of Pilgrims Way, Gilesgate, Durham, died at Shotley Bridge Hospital, Consett, after a circumcision operation.

Mr Patel was committed by Chester-le-Street magistrates, in County Durham, to Newcastle Crown Court, where a plea and direction hearing will take place on May 21.

He was granted conditional bail and his passport remains surrendered to Durham Police.