A Christian nurse was suspended after offering to pray for the recovery of an elderly patient.

Caroline Petrie, 45, was accused of failing to show a commitment to equality and diversity after the incident and is now awaiting the outcome of a disciplinary hearing.

The community nurse who carries out home visits in North Somerset, has been suspended by the primary care trust and could lose her job. The married mother of two argues she did not force her beliefs on anyone but simply asked if the woman would like a prayer said for her, as she has done with other patients.