Police study Liam Gallagher 'sex assault' claim

Police are investigating an allegation that Liam Gallagher indecently assaulted a female member of British Airways staff.

The Oasis singer was boarding a flight to Rio de Janeiro at Gatwick Airport last Friday when the alleged incident took place.

The 30-year-old BA ground staffer was checking Gallagher and the rest of the band on to the aircraft when she claims the singer made a rude gesture and grabbed her bottom.

She immediately reported the alleged incident to the airline and Sussex police has launched an investigation.

Gallagher was travelling to Brazil with Oasis to take part in the third Rock In Rio festival.

A BA spokesman said: "On Friday evening January 12 a male passenger was allegedly abusive to a female member of staff prior to boarding flight 2247 from Gatwick to Rio De Janeiro.

"The member of staff has reported the alleged incident to Sussex police and they are now investigating."

A spokesman for Sussex police has confirmed they were looking into the complaint.

He added: "It is alleged that the assault on a female BA employee happened on January 12 in the North Terminal. Inquiries are continuing into the allegation and we are unable to comment further at this time."

Airlines can take action to prevent passengers boarding flights if they deem their behaviour has been inappropriate.

In 1998 Gallagher was banned for life from travelling on airline Cathay Pacific following abusive behaviour on a flight from Hong Kong to Australia.