Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne charged with sexual assault on board train

Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne (pictured) charged with sexual assault on a train - PA
Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne (pictured) charged with sexual assault on a train - PA

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 on Monday 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."

He will appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on December 11. 

The former star, who has battled alcohol addiction since retiring from professional sport in 2005, tweeted on Sunday night telling his followers to "buy a mirror" so that they can watch their own backs. 

"Keep on your toes," he said, thanking his fans for their messages.