A man accused of attacking a police officer with a machete has denied attempted murder.

PC Stuart Outten, 28, was hurt after challenging a motoring offences suspect who was allegedly armed with a large knife.

The patrol officer sustained head and hand injuries in the incident in Leyton, east London, just after midnight on 8 August.

Muhammad Rodwan, 56, appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday charged with attempted murder and possession of a machete.

The defendant, of Luton, spoke to confirm his identity and British nationality by video link from Belmarsh jail. He went on to enter not guilty pleas to the two charges.

Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC set a five-day trial date of 14 January, before remanding Rodwan into custody.

Outten’s family have previously said they were “overwhelmed” by the support they had received from the public and the “wider policing family”. “We are incredibly proud of the bravery Stuart showed during the incident,” they added.