A LONDON doctor allegedly told a patient seeking contraception to undergo an exorcism at Westminster Cathedral.

Dr Joyce Pratt, who works at several family planning clinics in central London, allegedly told the patient that there was "something moving inside her stomach" and that "black magic was involved".

The Fitness to Practise Panel is today meeting in Manchester to hear the claims.

A General Medical Council statement alleged she told the patient that she could help her because she "had powers" and that she should see a priest at Westminster Cathedral.

The three day tribunal will also hear claims that Dr Pratt told the patient that her mother was a witch and that her husband and mother were trying to kill her.

"It is alleged that Dr Pratt's conduct was irresponsible, unprofessional, intimidatory to her patient and liable to bring the profession into disrepute," the GMC statement said.

It is also alleged that Dr Pratt failed to co-operate with investigations by her employer and the primary care trust.

If guilty, she could be struck off the medical register.

Westminster Cathedral is on Francis Street, near Victoria station.

It is the mother church of the Roman Catholic faithful of the Archdiocese of Westminster.