A Croydon lawyer is facing the sack over an alleged Valentine's Day attack on his girlfriend.

Robert Davis, of Waddon Court Road, has been suspended from his role with the Crown Prosecution Service during an investigation. He has been charged with causing actual bodily harm.

The 35-year-old is accused of beating Diane Grove, 28, at their home, leaving her with visible injuries. In the hours before the attack it is thought the couple enjoyed a romantic day out.

But police were called to their home late at night after reports of a row and Mr Davis could be jailed if convicted.

Mr Davis has been with the Crown Prosecution for two years and has worked at courts in Croydon, as well as neighbouring Bromley.

He was released on bail after being charged and has since moved out of their home. Ms Grove has continued working at the Lexus car sales showroom in Purley Way.

A friend of his family said: "Anyone who knows Robert will be completely shocked by these allegations. He was doing so well for himself at the Crown Prosecution Service and everyone said he was totally in love with Diane.

"They had been going out for just under a year, but already there were rumours that marriage was on the cards."

Mr Davis insists he is not guilty.

It was decided he should not face trial in Croydon because he had worked before the judges at the courts here. He has appeared before magistrates in Kingston and is due before the court again next month.

A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service said: "Robert Davis has been charged with one count of actual bodily harm.

"He will appear for a section 52 committal hearing at Kingston Magistrates on April 5 and is on conditional bail. He is a CPS prosecutor and is currently suspended."