Football legend Paul Gascoigne is proving he can still pull in the crowds as he heads to Cumbria.

More than 1,000 people have already snapped up tickets for his appearance in Carlisle next month.

Organisers say there are only around 100 tickets left for the event at The Sands Centre on Saturday, March 12. Gazza will share his story in conversation with host and comedian Lester Crabtree.

Five lucky people will also be chosen from the audience on the night to join the England hero on stage and pose questions to him.

Ian Milburn, of IM Events, is staging the event, which will also feature impressionist Danny Posthill from Britain’s Got Talent.

He said: “The tickets have gone very well and we’ve only got around 60 standard tickets and some VIP ones left.

“It’s not a surprise because he’s such a footballing icon and he’s also a bit of an enigma. Everyone wants to hear his stories.

“We’re also going to be auctioning some items like shirts that Paul will be signing and people who win the bids they’ll be able to come up and ask him a question.”

Mr Milburn, who has also organised a flood fundraiser Battle of the Bands at the Harraby Catholic Club tonight (FEB 5) , added: “We’re also going to be making a donation to the flood fund on the [GAZZA] Sands Centre night so hopefully we can raise a lot.”

Paul Gascoigne was dubbed “the most naturally-gifted English midfielder of his generation” and is one of the sport’s most enduring icons.

During a glittering career he helped the England national team to World Cup and European Championship semi-finals, becoming an adored public figure as well as a sporting icon.

Famed for his tears at Italia ’90 and his goal against Scotland in Euro ‘96, Gazza’s career included stints with Newcastle United, Spurs, Lazio and Rangers.

However, he is also well known for his personal problems away from the football pitch and emotional difficulties have led to speculation about his private life.

Tickets, priced from £35 plus booking fee, available from The Sands Centre on 01228 633766, online at www.thesandscentre.co.uk or email info@imeventsservices.co.uk .