FOOTBALLER Paul Gascoigne may be jetting off to end his footballing days in China, but he celebrated his last night on British soil in true Gazza-style.

The midfielder was joined by friends, including former England cricketer Ian Botham, at the home of rugby union team Newcastle Falcons.

The pair watched from a private box at Kingston Park, on Saturday, as Botham's son, Liam, helped the Zurich Premiership side to a 32-10 win over NEC Harlequins.

During the game they smoked cigars and drank glasses of wine.

One onlooker said: "Gazza just looked like he wanted a good time. He was all smiles."

Also with Gascoigne was long-time friend Jimmy "Five Bellies" Gardner.

The party later adjourned to the members' bar, which Gascoigne left at about 6.20pm.

He said the occasion provided a great send-off for him ahead of his voyage to the rim of the Gobi Desert, where he has been named as player-coach for a Chinese league side.

He said: "I'm looking forward to China. I'm feeling fine."

Gascoigne, 35, has been without a club since leaving Burnley last summer.

His previous clubs include Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Newcastle United and Middlesbrough.