A police officer who claimed he had been attacked in a graveyard while on duty has been charged with misconduct.

Michael Tovell, a serving police constable, has been suspended in connection with the incident on the evening of February 2 in St Lawrence Chase, Ramsgate.

The 45-year-old of Margate Road, Ramsgate, reported he was knocked unconscious after being set upon by a group of people at about 9.45pm.

He was taken to hospital for treatment but was discharged the following morning.

Mr Tovell has now been charged with misconduct in a public office.

He is due to appear before Margate Magistrates' Court on August 30.