Paul Gascoigne fined for harrassing ex-girlfriend

Former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has been fined after he pleaded guilty to sending abusive tweets, phone calls and messages to his ex-girlfriend.

Paul Gascoigne claimed paparazzi made him 'crack'. Picture: PA

The 48-year-old also pleaded guilty at Bournemouth Magistrates’ Court to the common assault by beating of photographer Steven Shepherd and damaging his glasses after spotting him “secretly” snapping him.

Gascoigne admitted harassing Amanda Thomas, his girlfriend of five years, during a two-week period in March following their split at the end of last year.

Gascoigne, who now lives in Poole, sent a number of foul-mouthed and threatening messages and Tweets after she began a new relationship with Andrew Stone, a photographer who works with Mr Shepherd.

The defendant’s solicitor, Gavin Harris, told the court that Gascoigne had felt harassed by the pair of photographers which had caused him to “crack” under the pressure.

District Judge Stephen Nicholls sentenced Gascoigne to a community order for 12 months with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement. He was issued with a restraining order for two years prohibiting him from contacting Miss Thomas or making comments or posting material about her on social media.

Gascoigne was also fined £100 for the harassment and ordered to pay £235 court costs and £1,000 compensation to Miss Thomas, £100 to Mr Shepherd, £200 for the broken glasses, as well as a £60 victim surcharge.