A man who won investment for his Norfolk food business on hit TV show Dragons' Den is to stand trial accused of knocking his pregnant partner unconscious.

Ross Mendham, 40, who got a £60k boost for his instant noodle and pasta venture Barenaked Foods after appearing on the BBC show in 2013, has been accused of assault.

It follows an incident on December 2 last year when Mendham is said to have punched his partner, who was then 32 weeks pregnant, in the face causing her to lose consciousness.

Mendham, of Sorrel Grove, Cringleford, who is the son of former Norwich City footballer Peter Mendham, appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Wednesday (January 3).

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich Crown CourtNorwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest)He pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm between December 1 and December 4, 2023.

Appearing via videolink from HMP Norwich Mendham, who had tattoos on his face and neck and wore a sandy-coloured jumper, spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea.

A trial, expected to last four days, was set for June 10 this year by Judge Anthony Bate.

Mendham was remanded in custody until his trial.

The ex-bodybuilder businessman appeared on Dragons' Den in 2013 when he successfully got investment from Peter Jones for Barenaked Foods.

Eastern Daily Press: Ross Mendham appearing on Dragons' Den in 2013Ross Mendham appearing on Dragons' Den in 2013 (Image: BBC)Since then, the packets of low calorie, low carb foods have gone on to be sold in several supermarkets, including Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Tesco and Morrisons.

In 2022 he also launched a fashion brand called God of Design (GOD) that upcycled vintage and designer clothing.