A BLACKBURN doctor has denied sexually touching three in-patients on a gynaecological ward at Burnley General Hospital.

Married father or two, Mannan Masud, 41, is alleged to have fondled the "vulnerable" women, all who were recovering from operations, by purporting to be their medic. Masud, of London Walk, pleaded not guilty to three charges of sexually touching a woman over 16 on August 20.

Burnley magistrates directed that the case be held at the Crown Court.

The defendant was bailed until December 17 to await committal proceedings. He was ordered not to enter Burnley except to attend court and not to apply for overseas travel documents.

He must also live at his address in Blackburn except for certain dates in November when he is attending courses.