Steve Harmison praised the charity efforts of Paul Gascoigne

The Variety Club of Great Britain hosted the event at Newcastle Civic Centre on Friday.

Among those who paid tribute to him were cricketer Steve Harmison, fresh from the success of the Ashes, Sir Bobby Robson and Alan Shearer.

About 400 guests, including showbiz stars, were invited to the event.

Harmison said: "Paul Gascoigne is a North East legend who deserves everything he gets from a function like this."

The footballer star had sleepless nights before the event

Former England and Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson also paid tribute to him.

He said: "Over the years he has been a high-quality footballer, a contagious kid, everyone likes him.

"He is loveable, he is daft, he is fun - but he could play."

Gascoigne said he had had sleepless nights before Friday's event.

He said: "To have so many of my friends, former managers, players and fans here today is fantastic.

"I feel really good in myself and I am enjoying life.

"I have got my problems like everyone else but I am trying to get on with it."