Chris Packham has been charged with assault in Malta.

Chris Packham

Chris Packham

The 'Springwatch' presenter was making an independent documentary on illegal bird trapping on the Maltese island of Gozo when the alleged incident is said to have taken place.

However, Chris has denied the allegations and has instead insisted that he was the victim of an assault.

In a statement, his agent explained: "Whilst filming an interview on the public roadside, a vehicle appeared and two men jumped out shouting at Chris and his team, shoving them aggressively.

"Whilst Chris and the team stood back, the police joined them. Instead of intervening on behalf of the innocent parties, the police immediately took the side of the aggressors and manhandled Chris and other members of the team off the site."

The wildlife campaigner said the alleged assault occurred hours after he had called police after seeing what he thought were a number of protected species being kept in cages on the island.

Chris wrote on Twitter: "Malta! You point out suspected criminals to the police ... and you end up in court! (sic)"

And in a short video clip, Chris also gave his version of the incident, revealing he had been charged with "using force against any person, with an intent to insult, annoy or hurt them".

The 55-year-old presenter added: "I am completely innocent of these charges. Not only was I the victim of being pushed and jostled around I was also then pushed all the way up the street by a policeman."

Chris is set to appear in court today (20.04.17).