Heart surgeon accused of sexually assaulting staff

Amal Bose was head of cardiovascular surgery at Blackpool Victoria Hospital

A senior heart surgeon has been charged with sexually assaulting members of staff at the hospital where he worked.

Amal Bose faces 14 charges relating to six women at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, where he was formerly head of the cardiovascular surgery department.

The hospital contacted Lancashire Police in 2023 after reports of offences against its employees.

The force said the 54-year-old was charged on Friday and some of the charges encompass more than one alleged offence.

'Fully co-operating'

Mr Bose, of Thurnham near Lancaster, has been released on bail ahead of an initial appearance at Lancaster Magistrates' Court on 7 June.

Blackpool Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, said it was "fully co-operating" with the investigation.

A representative said: "The trust can confirm that a former member of staff has been charged with offences of sexual assault.

"I want to reassure patients and their families that the hospital remains a safe and caring environment and the provision of services continues as normal."