GP charged over death of patient

A GP has been charged with manslaughter through gross negligence after the death of a 73-year old man in 2006.

The charge has arisen from a police investigation into the death of David Townsend, who died at his home in Plymouth in May 2006.

Dr Mitra Nikkhah, who no longer practices in Plymouth, appeared at Plymouth Crown Court on Monday morning and was bailed to reappear on 6 June.

The General Medical Council has been informed about the charge.

A police spokesman said the local primary care trust had co-operated fully with the police throughout the investigation.