A UK court has has charged Scotland's former first minister with multiple counts of attempted rape and sexual assault.

Alex Salmond says he handed himself in to police on Wednesday (January 23) after finding out he was under investigation, but denies any wrongdoing.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) FORMER SCOTTISH FIRST MINISTER, ALEX SALMOND, SAYING: "I am innocent of any criminality whatsoever (...) I refute absolutely these allegations of criminality and I'll defend myself to the utmost in court." Salmond was an architect of the failed referendum for Scottish independence in 2014, and had led Scotland's government for seven years.

He now faces charges of nine counts of sexual assault, two counts of attempted rape, two counts of indecent assault and breach of the peace.

He has not entered a plea, and was released on bail before his next court date is confirmed.