Sir Bobby Charlton has been taken to hospital after complaining of stomach pains while playing in the Alfred Dunhill Championship pro-am event in Scotland.

The Manchester Evening News reported that an ambulance was called and Charlton initially refused to get into it but was eventually persuaded to be taken to Ninewells hospital in Dundee.

A source at the hospital said that the Manchester United director, 76, was treated for stomach pains in the accident and emergency department but was then discharged and allowed home.

The MEN quoted a source as saying: “It was typical of Sir Bobby. He turned out for a charity golf event and, when he had a bit of a turn, was determined to carry on.

“Others thought different and an ambulance was called. He refused point blank to get in but was then persuaded to let the doctors check him over.”