Geoffrey Wroe, the suspended headteacher of a special needs school in Harold Hill, appeared at Romford Magistrates’ Court today charged with two counts of assault.

Mr Wroe, 64, has pleaded not guilty to the two offences, alleged to have occurred on March 6 and March 20 2014.

The court heard the defendant state that witnesses claiming to have seen the incidents were lying.

Today the prosecution made its case, with Mr Wroe sitting with his head bowed for most of the time.

He took to the stand to deny the allegations.

The defence will continue tomorrow when District Judge Gary Lucie is expected to give his verdict.

Mr Wroe has been headteacher of Dycorts School, on Settle Road, for 32 years.

He was suspended from his post on March 27, 2014.

The public gallery was filled with Mr Wroe’s supporters.

The trial continues.

An update will be posted on the Recorder website tomorrow.