TV comedian Justin Lee Collins 'pushed girlfriend in front of car'

The ex-girlfriend of Justin Lee Collins has accused the television comedian of trying to push her in front of a car on a drunken night out with fellow presenter Alan Carr, a court heard yesterday.

Anna Larke, 38, who claims she was abused and bullied during her nine month relationship with the star, said the incident occurred one night as the three were walking down a street.

Mr Collins, also 38, who is being tried on a charge of harassment by causing Miss Larke fear of violence, denies the allegations. In a second day of testimony at St Alban's Crown Court, Miss Larke, a recovering alcoholic who has battled with depression, described what it was like to be in a relationship with The Friday Night Project host. Miss Larke claimed he shouted at her and tore a $20 note when she refused to have a lap dance in a club in Miami.

Earlier, the jury of nine women and three men heard that Mr Collins had bought her gifts including diamond earrings and a digital camera because she claimed he had hit her cat.

When Mr Collins was initially arrested after the relationship broke down last year he denied being abusive and said she was manipulative.

The trial continues.