A DOCTOR has been charged with indecently assaulting two nurses at Blackburn's Queen's Park Hospital.

Dr Patrick Chanda, 40, was working on the maternity ward when the alleged incidents took place on March 31 and May 8 this year.

Chanda, of Wigan, did not enter a plea to the charges when he appeared before Blackburn magistrates yesterday. He has since resigned from his job.

The case was adjourned until July 10 at the request of Ian Holland, defending.

"These allegations could have serious implications as far as his career is concerned and I wouldn't want him to be forced into entering a plea today," said Mr Holland.

Chanda was remanded on bail with conditions that he does not contact the alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust confirmed Dr Chanda was an employee of theirs at the time of the alleged offences and has since resigned.

Its medical director, Rineke Schram, said: "I can confirm that Dr Chanda was working as a senior house officer in obstetrics and gynaecology at Queen's Park Hospital when the alleged incidents concerning two female members of staff took place.

"The members of staff informed their manager and made full reports to the police.

"Dr Chanda was immediately suspended from duty pending a full investigation by the Trust.

"The Trust also made a report to the General Medical Council.

"Dr Chanda has since resigned from the Trust and is no longer working here.

"The two staff members have been offered support by the staff counsellor.

"There have been no reported instances concerning Dr Chandra of inappropriate behaviour towards patients."