A FAMILY doctor from Colne has appeared before Burnley magistrates accused of a total of 90 fraud and forgery charges amid allegations of "financial irregularities" surrounding his Burnley Road practice.

Shiv Prasad Dey, of Castle Road, Colne, is said to have made 45 false instruments - entries into medical records - and to have obtained from East Lancashire Health Authority 45 money transfers of £7.10 each by deception.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place in 1997 and 1998. Dey was given unconditional bail until October 12.

The doctor was arrested by police on March 25 this year, acting on a complaint from the health authority and later released him on bail.

Last Friday, the defendant was reinterviewed and charged with the 90 offences. He was bailed to appear before the court yesterday.

Dey is currently absent from work due to illness. A locum will cover the doctors' practice in his absence and it is understood the running of the surgery will not be unduly affected.

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