David Beckham spokesman dismisses reports relating to 'hacked and doctored emails' about Unicef charity work

A spokesman for David Beckham has dismissed media reports relating to "hacked and doctored emails" about his charity work as an Unicef ambassador.

The Sun newspaper is among several British and European news outlets to report they have seen private emails sent by Beckham and his staff.

It alleges the former footballer admitted to using his charity work to win himself a knighthood.

"This story is based on outdated material taken out of context from hacked and doctored private emails from a third party server and gives a deliberately inaccurate picture, " the spokesman said.

The statement also said the 41-year-old and Unicef "have had a powerful partnership in support of children for over 15 years".

"David and Unicef are rightly proud of what they have and will continue to achieve together and are happy to let the facts speak for themselves."

Beckham was made a Unicef Goodwill Ambassador in 2005 and has appeared in several public campaigns for the charity.

Responding to the reports, Unicef said it has not seen the emails and could not comment on them.

The charity insisted it is "extremely proud" of its work with the former England football captain praising his efforts in raising awareness and funds for its causes and personally donating "significant" sums.

Unicef said: "As well as generously giving his time, energy and support to help raise awareness and funds for Unicef's work for children, David has given significant funds personally."

Beckham's charitable fund has also carried out projects in Burkina Faso, Swaziland, Papua New Guinea and Cambodia to tackle issues including poor water and sanitation, malnutrition and HIV infection in mothers and children.

Unicef said since the fund was launched in February 2015 to mark the star's 10th year as an ambassador it has raised millions of pounds.

"We are extremely proud of the 7 Fund and all it has achieved for children," the charity said.

In June 2016 Beckham visited Swaziland to raise awareness of the drought affecting eastern and southern Africa.

Unicef also said it worked closely with high profile personalities "in good faith" to raise money and advocate improving the lives of children in danger around the world.

Its ambassadors also include Serena Williams, Orlando Bloom and Cate Blanchett.