The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Gascoigne faces charge of sexual assault against woman on train
Former footballer is due to appear in connection with alleged August incident
Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne has been charged with sexually assaulting a woman on board a train.
The 51-year-old was arrested at Durham Station on August 20 and yesterday British Transport Police confirmed that he had been charged with one count of sexual assault by touching.
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, of Amy Street, 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 August 20 this year.”
Gascoigne, who played for Newcastle, Tottenham, Lazio and Rangers, will appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on December 11.
Gascoigne was regarded as one of the most talented English midfielders of his generation, winning 57 caps. The Gateshead-born midfielder was a key player for England at the 1990 World Cup in Italy where his team’s run to the semi-final made them national heroes.
A yellow card in that game would have resulted in a suspension for the final had they not been beaten by West Germany, and his resulting tears on the pitch led to worldwide fame.
After devastating injuries he was again a key figure in the 1996 European Championship as the home team reached the semi-finals.
His goal against Scotland in a group game is considered one of the best-ever by an England international.
He was controversially left out of the following major tournament, in France in 1998, and his playing career declined.
Since retiring in 2004 after spells with Everton, Middlesbrough and Boston United, he has battled alcoholism and other personal difficulties.
He was due to be inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame last month but the invitation was withdrawn over concerns for his health and following a public backlash.