FORMER England star Paul Gascoigne admitted harassing his ex- girlfriend when he appeared at Bournemouth magistrates' court this morning.

Football ace Gascoigne, known as Gazza, also pleaded guilty to assaulting paparazzi photographer Steven Shepherd and damaging his glasses during an incident in Bournemouth Square.

Gazza,48, of Blake Hill Crescent, Poole, appeared before District Judge Stephen Nicholls who was told Gascoigne sent texts and abusive tweets to Amanda Thomas between March 9 and 22 this year.

The court was also told Gazza assaulted Mr Shepherd and caused the damage to his glasses after Mr Shepherd took pictures of him as he was having lunch with friends in Bournemouth Square on June 16 this year.

Prosecuting, Lee Turner said Gazza had been in a four-year relationship with Miss Thomas before the harassment took place.

Defending, Gavin Harris said Gascoigne felt paparazzi photographers had exerted influence over Miss Thomas by making regular contact with her.

He added:"Paparazzi have followed him around causing him huge distress. He was prescribed strong medication due to the pain caused by the press and photographers towards him. He had reached breaking point."

Mr Harris said that after the harassment offence Gascoigne was unable to be interviewed and was sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Dressed in a smart dark suit and pale shirt, Gazza spoke only to confirm his personal details during the 10-minute hearing.

The hearing has been adjourned until this afternoon to allow Gascoigne to speak to a probation officer.