A FAMILY doctor accused of misconduct and ignoring the cries of Iraqis being tortured by British soldiers is an “exemplary professional”, medical watchdogs heard.

A Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service hearing into an alleged cover-up by Northallerton GP Dr Derek Keilloh has heard a string of glowing references from fellow medical professionals, heralding his hard work and dedication to patients.

The partner at Mayford House Surgery, in Boroughbridge Road, was a captain and regimental medical officer of the 1st Battalion, Queen’s Lancashire Regiment in September 2003 in Basra when hotel receptionist Baha Mousa was hooded, handcuffed and beaten, dying 36 hours after being taken to the Army’s HQ.

Dr Keilloh, 37, supervised a failed resuscitation attempt of the shirtless Mr Mousa, and has maintained in interview with military police, at a court martial and a public inquiry, that he did not see the 26-yearold had suffered 93 separate injuries. He is alleged to have failed to properly examine Mr Mousa, check the condition of other detainees or notify senior officers about the “obvious”

mistreatment.

A subsequent £13m public inquiry into the incident condemned the Ministry of Defence for “corporate failure”

and the regiment for a “lack of moral courage to report abuse”.

Dr Keilloh also faces charges from the tribunal of failing to adequately examine Mr Mousa’s body after death, failing to notify a superior officer and similar claims relating to two other injured Iraqi detainees he examined.

At the hearing in Manchester, fellow medics commended Dr Keilloh, who denies misconduct, for his professionalism and honesty.

Liz Corser, a nurse and care home manager in Northallerton, said Dr Keilloh’s patient care was meticulous and that he was “very sensitive in dealing with relatives of residents”.

She said: “He’s very empathic, very caring, always professional and courteous and never rushes anybody.

“He’s a really good team worker. Not all doctors listen, but he does.”

Dr Gerald Fernandez, a Northallerton and Middlesbrough GP, said: “He’s a fully committed person. This is not just a personal view of mine, it’s my family’s view, it’s my friends’ view and it’s my neighbours’ view.

“He is one of the best I have ever met as a GP.”

Joanne Barker, a midwife and nurse, said the former Friarage Hospital doctor had an “unblemished” reputation and described his character as “honest, open and excellent”.

The hearing continues.