A POLICE officer will face trial accused of rape and sexual assault.

Michael Darbyshire, who was a serving officer at Worcester Police Station, appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court today (July 2).

He entered no plea to the charges, which relate to alleged offences between August and November 2019.

The rape is alleged to have happened in November 2019, while the sexual assaults are alleged to have happened in August of that year.

The 52-year-old appeared at court with other West Mercia Police staff and supporters, though only a few were allowed in due to social distancing requirements.

Darbyshire will appear at Worcester Crown Court on August 3 for trial.

He was granted conditional bail by magistrate Gareth Thomas, with conditions including not entering Fernhill Heath or the White Hart pub.