A DOCTOR who works in Worle is currently under investigation by a watchdog into his fitness to practice as a GP. Dr Steven Pearse-Danker, who works

A DOCTOR who works in Worle is currently under investigation by a watchdog into his fitness to practice as a GP. Dr Steven Pearse-Danker, who works at Worle Health Centre in the High Street, has had a series of conditions imposed upon him by the General Medical Council (GMC) as a result of the probe. The GMC's purpose is to protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public by ensuring proper standards in the practice of medicine. A total of 11 conditions have been put in place as part of an interim order while the investigation into Dr Pearse-Danker's fitness to practice is ongoing.An interim order is a standard procedure used by the GMC, and does not necessarily mean Dr Pearse-Danker will face a fitness to practice panel, which is a public inquiry into his professional conduct.The doctor is still practising at the health centre, but must inform the medical body of any professional appointment for which GMC registration is required.He must also comply with the GMC's investigation, which may include an assessment of his professional performance, and consult his director of postgraduate general practice education with regard to improving his communication skills. The conditions imposed upon the doctor will remain in place until early 2009.GMC rules mean allegations against a doctor are not made public unless a fitness to practice panel is convened.The Weston & Somerset Mercury tried to contact Dr Pearse-Danker on Tuesday, but he was unavailable for comment.