Beckham rejects 'ludicrous' story

David Beckham is expected to join his family on holiday

England footballer David Beckham has joined his wife and family on holiday after labelling newspaper claims about his private life as "ludicrous".

The ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid player issued a statement on Sunday insisting he was happily married to wife Victoria, a former Spice Girl.

Beckham's statement followed a News of the World story about his private life.

The footballer's family are alleged to have clashed with paparazzi at Heathrow Airport as they left for Switzerland.

The simple truth is that I am very happily married, have a wonderful wife and two very special kids Statement from David Beckham Beckham good role model

The 29-year-old singer and her parents, brother and two sons Brooklyn and Romeo were at the airport as they left for an Easter break on Sunday.

Beckham, 28, is understood to have been given time off from training at Real Madrid and has now joined his family.

It is not yet known whether the couple will seek legal action against the News of the World.

'Ludicrous stories'

In a statement, released through his agent, Beckham said: "During the past few months I have become accustomed to reading more and more ludicrous stories about my private life.

"What appeared this morning is just one further example.

"The simple truth is that I am very happily married, have a wonderful wife and two very special kids.

"There is nothing that any third party can do to change these facts."

A spokeswoman for the News of the World insisted the paper's story was true.

The Beckhams released a statement in September denying claims their marriage was in trouble.

Following Mrs Beckham's departure on holiday with her family from Heathrow Airport, police have confirmed they are investigating an alleged assault.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "We have received an allegation of assault following an altercation at Heathrow Airport around 1400 BST. Inquiries continue."