A STUDENT who needed a life saving operation after being injured during fees protests in December is facing trial at the crown court.

Middlesex University student Alfie Meadows, 21, was knocked unconscious during the December and needed an operation to relieve swelling on his brain.

He is accused, along with 23 others, of violent disorder that day, with a police officer claiming he was kicked by Mr Meadows.

Yesterday he appeared at the City of Westminster Magistrates Court and indicated a not guilty plea, before being bailed to appear on July 19.