THE case of a dentist accused of faking his own death is being monitored closely, NHS Devon said this week.

The statement comes after news that former Barnstaple dentist Emmanouil Parisis, who was believed to have died before resurfacing under a another name in Scotland, is being investigated by the General Dental Council.

An NHS Devon spokesman said: "All dentists must be registered with the General Dental Council to practise in the UK. Emmanouil Parisis was registered with the GDC.

"Mr Parisis worked for Associated Dental Practices Ltd, at St John's dental practice in Barnstaple.

"At the time of Mr Parisis' appointment the GDC was wholly responsible for ensuring the necessary paperwork was completed and checked as part of the registration process.

"The GDC has said that its registration process is robust. It has confirmed, too, that Mr Parisis also appeared on its register as Neil McClaren.

"As such, the GDC has referred Mr McClaren to its interim orders committee and this has the power to impose a range of conditions, pending a final decision.

"As the commissioners of dental services in Devon, we are monitoring the situation and if advised by the GDC that further action is required, will advise patients accordingly.

"In the meantime if anyone wishes to raise a concern or has any questions, they are invited to contact NHS Devon's Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 0845 111 0080 or 01392 267665."

Parisis, under the name of Neil McLaren, has been charged with trying to defraud various insurance organisations of £1.8 million. He is currently on remand awaiting trial.