PATIENTS of a banned family doctor are publicly backing the medic following the General Medical Council's (GMC) decision to stop him from working for 18 months.

Letters of support from many of Prestwich GP Dr Colin Ogdon's patients and colleagues have been sent to London in time for a review of his case by an NHS Tribunal on Monday.

As reported last week, Dr Ogdon, from Holcombe, was suspended from working as a GP in any capacity by the Interim Committee of the GMC following an inquiry by Bury and Rochdale Health Authority.

It was claimed that he hired a financial consultant, named as Darren Gerrard, who had a criminal record, including convictions for kidnapping, forgery and GBH.

As a result he was issued with an interim suspension by the authority which is now up for review.

Ms Lynne McGurren, who has been a patient at the Prestwich Health Centre surgery since Dr Ogdon started there more than 20 years ago, claims the investigation into the practice in Fairfax Road has turned into a witch hunt.

Ms McGurren, of Bury Old Road, Prestwich, said: "I just want Dr Ogdon to know that there are some people out there who support him completely, despite what has happened. He is a very good doctor who has always gone out of his way to listen to his patients and help them."

She added: "I know Dr Ogdon tended to trust people and give people a chance but I think he has been falsely accused. I don't believe he knew about all the things this man had done."

An NHS worker, Ms McGurren went on: "I think it is a bit like a witch hunt. Once one person says something negative people start to believe it but there are many supporters out there who want to pass on their best wishes to Dr Ogdon."

"I think he is a wonderful doctor," Ms McGurren added, "and I have written a letter to the NHS Tribunal saying so. Dr Ogdon supported me when I needed him and I hold him in the highest regard."

Ms McGurren said she had spoken to at least 30 other people who shared her views.

She added: "I would love to be able to go along to the tribunal on Monday and speak up for him but I hope the letter will help in some way instead. We who support Dr Ogdon do so 100 per cent and I couldn't have wished for a better doctor."

Fellow supporter Aida Vejzagic, who is a patient and also works in the medical profession, said that at least ten of her colleagues had also written in support of Dr Ogdon.

She added: "Those who know him, know that you could not meet a more lovely doctor. I was so sad when I heard what had happened. I wish him all the best."