A Kent GP is appearing before the General Medical Council today after allegedly discussing his Christian faith with a patient.

The committee will consider if Dr Richard Scott, from Thanet, should be given a warning.

A complaint was made against the family doctor, who practises at Bethesda Medical Centre, in Margate, last year.

His comments were said to have "distressed" his patient.

Dr Scott said he offered a patient "an opportunity to discuss whether faith in God through Jesus might be an advantage to him".

He added: "In their view I've overstepped the mark and I have exploited a vulnerable patient. I say not at all."

The GMC said its guidance was that "doctors should not normally discuss their personal beliefs with patients unless those beliefs are directly relevant to the patient's care.

"They also must not impose their beliefs on patients, or cause distress by the inappropriate or insensitive expression of religious, political or other beliefs or views."

The GMC hearing, which is expected to last four days, starts in Manchester this morning.