Paul Gascoigne denies sexually assaulting woman on train
PAUL GASCOIGNE yesterday protested his innocence after being charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a train.
The 51-year-old former England star was arrested for allegedly touching the stranger inappropriately during a journey from York to Durham on Aug 20.
British Transport Police said it had this week charged him with one count of sexual assault by touching. He is due to appear before court next month.
Gascoigne immediately denied the claims on Twitter, telling his 350,000 followers that he was innocent.
In a series of posts, since-deleted, he said the allegations had left him in tears and hurting “deep inside”.
He also spoke of his respect for “all women”, questioning why he would carry out an assault when he has a mother, sisters, nieces and a daughter.
“Just so pleased that everyone I know they [know it’s] not true,” he wrote. “I do not accuse abuse or use women I’ve soooo much respect for women and myself X big hugs from Gazza,” a separate post read.
Another tweet alleged that the police officers involved in his case had asked for selfies and an autograph.
This was denied by the British Transport Police, with a spokesman saying the detective sergeant involved had disputed Gascoigne’s account. Earlier, 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 to Durham.
“Paul Gascoigne, of Leicester, was charged via postal requisition with one count of sexual assault by touching, contrary to Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The charge relates to an incident on board a train on Aug 20 this year.”
The footballer later deleted his tweets, but issued a statement on his Facebook page that read: “You will have read in the press that I have been charged with an offence.
“I deny this offence but on the advice of my legal team I will not comment any further at this stage.”
He signed off the message with “love Gazza” and three kisses.
Gascoigne has endured a highly publicised battle with alcohol addiction. He retired from professional football in 2005, having built a legacy as one of England’s finest midfielders, most notably in the squad that reached the 1990 World Cup semi-finals. His career took him around the world, but his personal troubles made more headlines than his talent.
In recent years, he has also opened up about the anguish caused by the death of his 22-year-old nephew, following an overdose.
Gascoigne will appear at Newton Aycliffe magistrates’ court on Dec 11.