THE newly-appointed head of Bromsgrove School is facing assault charges after his ex-wife accused him of beating her, according to reports from New Zealand.

According to the New Zealand Herald newspaper Peter Clague, 48, is accused of shaking his former partner, throwing her onto some steps and standing over her with clenched fists in "white rage".

Mr Claque is due to move from New Zealand to take up his role as head of Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire on September 1.

He is facing a private prosecution at Auckland District Court charged with 'male assaults female' against Jeanne Denham.

Mr Clague has denied the claims, saying his ex-wife invented them because she was angry over a break-up.

It is understood Bromsgove's governors are standing by Mr Claque.