Doctor suspended by GMC

Dr Duncan was sacked after the GMC hearing

A psychiatrist who worked at a hospital in Cumbria has been sacked for having a relationship with a patient.

Dr David Duncan has also now been suspended by the General Medical Council (GMC).

The relationship was uncovered when Dr Duncan worked as a locum at the West Cumberland Hospital.

A senior manager described his behaviour as "totally unacceptable".

Nigel Woodcock, chief executive of the North Cumbria Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Trust, said the specialist had been in a position of trust and confidence.

Mr Woodcock told BBC Radio Cumbria: "Anyone involved in the delivery of health care in the NHS is placed in a unique position of trust and confidence.

"If the relationship is breached then they must expect serious sanctions, as has been the case here, with dismissal and ultimately suspension by the GMC."