A man who won investment for his Norfolk food business on hit TV show Dragon's Den will stand trial in 2026 accused of knocking his pregnant partner unconscious.

Ross Mendham, 40, who got a £60k boost for his instant noodle and pasta venture Barenaked Foods after appearing on the BBC show in 2013, has been accused of assault.

Ross MendhamRoss Mendham (Image: Newsquest) It follows an incident on December 2 last year when Mendham is said to have punched his partner, who was then 32 weeks pregnant, in the face causing her to lose consciousness.

Mendham, of Sorrel Grove, Cringleford, has pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm between December 1 and December 4 2023.

Ross MendhamRoss Mendham (Image: BBC/Submitted) Mendham, who wore a black suit and had tattoos on his face and neck, appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Friday (August 2) when a trial - expected to last up to four days - was fixed for January 5, 2026.

Norwich Crown CourtNorwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest) He was granted bail.

The ex-bodybuilder businessman appeared on Dragons' Den in 2013 when he successfully got investment from Peter Jones for Barenaked Foods.

Since then, the packets of low calorie, low carb foods have gone on to be sold in several supermarkets, including Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Tesco and Morrisons.

In 2022 he also launched a fashion brand called God of Design (GOD) that upcycled vintage and designer clothing.