Gascoigne Faces Trial Over Alleged Racial Abuse

Gascoigne leaving court

Ex-England football star Paul Gascoigne will stand trial in September after pleading not guilty to a racially-aggravated public order offence.

The charge - under the Crime and Disorder Act - was brought against Gascoigne earlier this month after an inquiry by West Midlands Police. It concerns alleged comments made by Gascoigne to a security guard at a show in Wolverhampton last year.

At least four witnesses are expected to give evidence at the star's trial, which will be held at Dudley Magistrates' Court (where Gascoigne appeared today).

After signing autographs for two fans on his way into the court building, Gascoigne appeared in the dock wearing a dark suit and a pale blue open-necked shirt.

His appearance took just over 20 minutes, and Gascoigne spoke only to enter his plea, give his personal details and thank the court at the conclusion of the hearing.

As he left the courtroom, Gascoigne said to reporters: ''Cheers guys. Write the truth, write the truth.''