FOOTBALL legend Paul Gascoigne dialled 999 before taking a police escort to the shops.

The 47-year-old former England star, who has battled problems with alcohol addiction and mental health, called the emergency number on Tuesday.

Officers turned up at his home in Sandbanks and later accompanied Mr Gascoigne, whose emotion and talent charmed the nation at the 1990 World Cup, to Tesco on Sandbanks Road to do some shopping.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police confirmed the force had received a call at an address along Sandbanks Road.

She added: “On Tuesday afternoon police responded to a call about the occupants being prevented from leaving an address along Sandbanks Road in Poole.

“Two officers attended and decided it was appropriate to provide the members of the public with a lift to and from a local convenience store. The circumstances of the incident have been reviewed.

“While we imagine the officers felt they were being helpful, we would expect them to justify their use of police resources and treat everyone fairly regardless of public profile. The officers will be reminded of this expectation.”

The incident occurred just hours after Mr Gascoigne was discharged after spending five days at Poole Hospital.

The ex Lazio and Spurs star, once known for his cheeky demeanour and phenomenal technical ability on the pitch, was seen carrying a bottle of gin and pack of beer before being admitted to hospital, escorted by police officers. A spokesperson for Dorset Police reminded the public that 101 should be called in non-emergencies rather than 999.