Disgraced fashion designer John Galliano will stand trial for racism in France, despite making an official apology.

The news comes after he was sacked by fashion house Christian Dior on Tuesday.

Galliano has been charged with making public insults towards three people referring to their religion and race. If found guilty he could face up to six months in prison and a 22,500 euro fine.

In a statement issued through his lawyers, Galliano said "Anti-Semitism and racism have no part in our society. I unreservedly apologise for my behaviour in causing any offence".

However, he went on to deny the claims made against him, arguing that he had been "subjected to verbal harassment and an unprovoked assault when an individual tried to hit me with a chair having taken violent exception to my look and my clothing".

Mr Galliano has promised to begin proceedings for defamation.