Express & Star

Paul 'Gazza' Gascoigne at centre of Wolverhampton assault probe

Police are investigating an alleged assault during an appearance by Paul Gascoigne at an event in the Black Country.

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Paul Gascoigne greets fans at the beginning of the meet and greet evening at the Starworks Warehouse last month

The former England footballer is at the centre of the probe by West Midlands Police after a report was made to the force.

The 51-year-old had turned up at the Starworks venue in Frederick Street, Wolverhampton, for ‘An Evening with Paul ‘Gazza’ Gascoigne’, on July 20.

He did not appear on stage because of a dispute with organisers over his fee, but he did take part in a meet and greet session with VIP ticket holders when he had his picture taken with fans and signed memorabilia.

Assault

A police spokesman said: “Police are looking into a report of an alleged assault involving a 51-year-old man in Wolverhampton on Friday, July 20. Inquiries are ongoing.”

The Express & Star understands the 51-year-old involved is Paul Gascoigne.

This newspaper has contacted Gazza’s management team but there has been no response.

After walking out at the event, Gazza apologised to fans and promised a free event for all those who attended. No arrangements for another event have yet been made.

Gazza’s last appearance in Wolverhampton, at the Civic Hall, left him being prosecuted and fined £1,000 for making a racist comment.

During the show, the ex-footballer asked a bodyguard standing in the shadows at the side of the stage ‘can you smile so I can see you?’, Dudley Magistrates’ Court heard. He admitted racially abusing the security guard.

The court heard Gazza had initially told police the comment was ‘just good humour’. But District Judge Graham Wilkinson told him: “I accept you grew up in a different time but we live in the 21st century. Grow up with it or keep your mouth closed, Mr Gascoigne.”

Drunk

Gazza played for Newcastle, Tottenham and Rangers during a career which peaked when he appeared at World Cup Italia 90. He played several reserve games for Wolves during an unsuccessful trial in 2003.

Gazza, who now lives in Leicestershire, reportedly split up recently with an art gallery boss he had been dating.

At the weekend he dismissed suggestions he was drunk during an appearance on Sky Sports show Soccer AM, saying sleeping tablets were the cause of him having to leave the show early.

Presenter John Fendley told viewers: “Gazza was here earlier. Gazza’s not feeling wonderful, he’s not too great so he’s left us. We’ll catch up with you very soon Paul, all the very best mate.”

The star later tweeted to explain his absence, saying he was unwell due to taking sleeping tablets.

Viewers had expressed concern for his wellbeing on social media during his Soccer AM appearance, but rushed to support him following his tweet.

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