by Ross Lidbetter

ross.lidbetter@essnmedia.co.uk

Former Big Brother contestant Alexandra De Gale has denied brandishing a large knife at three other women outside her home.

The 24-year-old has been charged with having an offensive weapon at Allen Road, Waddon, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.

At a preliminary hearing at Croydon Magistrates' Court this morning, the bench heard she brought out a orange handled kitchen knife after an incident on August 23.

The alleged incident concerned a confrontation between three women and De Gale outside her home.

Peter Bonham, prosecuting, said: "It appears Miss De Gale was involved in an altercation outside her home. She had been someone who had been on a television programme and had been known in regard to that.

"Whatever the nature of the confrontation, and things that were said, it appears she came back into her home and came back carrying a large knife."

Dressed in a grey jacket and blue jeans, De Gale spoke to confirm her name, address and date of birth.

She denied the charge against her.

Her solicitor Francis Conteh said: "It's our position that we called the police in relation to being attacked by the three complainants."

Mr Conteh added that his client had suffered several injuries in the altercation.

When asked whether she would like the case to be heard at the Magistrates or Crown Court, De Gale opted for a Crown Court trial, replying: "To be tried by a judge and jury."

Single mum De Gale, of Allen Road, shot to fame after appearing in Big Brother this year. She was kicked off the show in disgrace.

She will next appear for a committal hearing at Croydon Magistrates' Court on November 28.