Gascoigne denies charge of sexually assaulting woman on board train
FORMER ENGLAND footballer Paul Gascoigne will defend himself against a sex assault charge by saying he has a propensity to kiss people “in a non-sexual manner”, a court heard.
The 51-year-old was arrested while travelling on a train between York and Newcastle for allegedly kissing a woman without consent in Darlington in August.
He appeared at Teesside Crown Court to enter a not guilty plea to the single charge of sexual assault. He will apply for legal aid to be represented by a QC, as the case is being prosecuted by a barrister of the same seniority.
His barrister Michelle Heeley QC told the court that a number of character witnesses will give evidence “about his propensity to kiss people in a non-sexual manner”.
During the 10-minute hearing, Gascoigne had to be asked to be quiet by the Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Simon Bourne-Arton.
He stated his full name, date
of birth and when he was asked his nationality, replied: “English, Protestant.”
After hearing his trial could not be accommodated before October 14, Gascoigne called out: “Sir, Your Honour.” The judge replied: “Be quiet.”
Gascoigne said: “I’m worried to bits. I’m scared.” He then apologised. As he walked out of the court room, Gascoigne thanked Judge Bourne-Arton.