Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne has been charged with sexual assault after an incident on a train.

British Transport Police said the alleged assault took place on a journey from York to Durham on 20 August.

The 51-year-old star, also known as Gazza, was arrested at Durham station and later released.

Police have confirmed he has been charged with one count of sexual assault by touching.

Earlier Gascoigne tweeted to defend his actions but the post was deleted a short time later.


"Hi as u know ive been charged with a sexual assault from 4 mths ago plus the police who charged me asked me for selfies&an autograph ? Why if I did wrong ok I'm sticking up4myself my manager SHANE said say nothing leave it2 the lawyers no I'm my own lawyer I did f*** all wrong," it read.

He added that he had stepped in to comfort a woman after she was called "a fat cow". That tweet was also deleted minutes later.

Image: Paul Gascoigne tweet

A spokeswoman for the force said: "A man is due to appear in court next month charged in connection with the sexual assault of a woman on board a train from York to Durham.

"Paul Gascoigne was charged via postal requisition with one count of sexual assault by touching, contrary to Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003."

He is due to appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on 11 December.

The former Newcastle, Tottenham, Lazio and Rangers player was regarded as one of the most talented midfielders of his generation, winning 57 England caps, but he has struggled with alcoholism since retiring in 2004.