A Merton policeman has today denied sexually assaulting and harassing a prostitute.

Irshad Kamal, 44, who has been suspended from duty, is accused of two charges relating to a woman between October 31, 2013, and January last year.

He appeared at Southwark Crown Court dressed in a dark suit and purple tie and spoke only to confirm his not guilty pleas to sexual assault and harassment.

A trial has been fixed at the same court for September 21 and is set to last five days.

He has been bailed to his Wandsworth home with conditions including not to enter brothels.