Three Celtic footballers arrested after a fracas with a photographer during the club's Christmas party will not face any charges, police said yesterday.

The players had travelled to Newcastle for their night out, which turned sour after an incident allegedly involving a Daily Record photographer.

They had spent the evening drinking in pubs and bars before heading for an American-themed bar near the Millennium Bridge, Gateshead.

The fracas centred around the alleged taking of the photographer's camera outside Buffalo Joe's nightclub.

A group of players were later arrested outside the Sea nightclub, which is a favourite haunt of footballers and celebrities.

Seven people were interviewed and three - Belgian defender Joos Valgaeren, 26, Swedish midfielder Johan Mjallby, 31, and 28-year-old Dutchman Bobby Peta - were held overnight.

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Napier said: "We carried out a full and thorough investigation into what was a serious allegation and submitted a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service.

"We have now been advised that no further action should be taken as there is insufficient evidence to support a prosecution.

"The management and players of Celtic FC have fully co-operated with our inquiries throughout."

The three were due to answer bail at Gateshead police station next week, but that has been cancelled.

The Daily Record, whose photographer had complained to police about the actions of Celtic players, welcomed the fact that no players were to be charged.

In a statement, the newspaper said: "What is not in doubt is that this incident happened.

"The Daily Record has in its possession a letter from Detective Chief Inspector Napier in which he says 'I am satisfied that an incident occurred...which amounted to an allegation of robbery'.

"But club captain Paul Lambert has already apologised to the fans for the players' behaviour during the infamous Christmas party in Newcastle."