A driver accused of injuring a police officer during a routine stop and search will stand trial early next year.

David Seal denied dangerous driving and assaulting PC Matthew Hooper when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court yesterday.

The 32-year-old tree surgeon, of Peacock Street, Gravesend, was arrested after an incident on the town’s one-way system at The Terrace in the early hours of July 23.

PC Hooper was treated in hospital for severe bruising to his legs. Part of the one-way system was closed for most of the morning.

Father-of-three Seal will stand trial in the week beginning January 8.

Conditional bail was continued.