Bafta-winning actor Micheal Ward, known for roles in shows and films including Top Boy, Small Axe and Blue Story, has been charged with rape.

Mr Ward, 27, of Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, is charged with two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police said.

The alleged offences relate to one woman and are reported to have taken place in January 2023, according to the force.

The actor won the Rising Star award at the Baftas in 2020 and was nominated for best supporting actor for Small Axe the following year. He also starred in 2022 film Empire of Light, and will be seen in the forthcoming Eddington.

He is due to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court in London on 28 August.

The Met's Det Supt Scott Ware said: "Our specialist officers continue to support the woman who has come forward - we know investigations of this nature can have significant impact on those who make reports."