A GP found guilty of serious professional misconduct can resume unconditional practice in his North-East surgery after successfully retraining.

Dr Michael John Harbinson, a senior partner at Tanfield View Surgery in Stanley, County Durham, was found guilty by the General Medical Council (GMC) 18 months ago, for making unnecessary referrals of young boys for circumcisions to Doctor Peter Silverstone, who it emerged was not qualified to perform such operations.

At least two babies were left screaming after botched operations, leading to Dr Silverstone, formerly of Gosforth, Newcastle, being struck off at the GMC hearing in August 2001.

The GMC placed Dr Harbinson under an 18-month period of review, restricting his ability to practice, while also requiring him to undergo retraining and at least two months secondment, followed by a further year of supervision, with a "mentor".

Dr Harbinson was given the all-clear by the GMC on Friday, after a professional conduct committee said it was satisfied he had complied with conditions it placed on him.

He told the committee he has now changed his approach to circumcision referrals, accepting that most cases can be treated without the need for surgery.

Committee chairman Professor Denis McDevitt, said: "The committee is satisfied it is safe to conclude your case and allow you to resume unrestricted practice."

Dr Harbinson, of Lintzford Road, Hamsterley Mill, near Consett, has been a GP at Tanfield View Surgery, his father's former practice, since 1976 and senior partner for the past 12 years.