CHRIS MARTIN - SCRUFFY CHRIS AND GWYNETH NEARLY TURNED AWAY FROM FIRST-CLASS FLIGHT

Newlyweds CHRIS MARTIN and GWYNETH PALTROW were nearly turned away from boarding a flight yesterday (28DEC03) - because they were dressed so scruffily.

The low-key pair checked in at London's GATWICK AIRPORT for a trip to Mexico via Dallas in such shabby clothing that ground staff thought the A-list couple could be tramps.

COLDPLAY frontman Chris wore dirty khaki trousers and boots, whereas OSCAR-winning actress Gwyneth dressed down in ripped jeans and old shoes.

Staff at the airport kept the couple talking while colleagues checked to see if there was a dress code for the $35,611 (GBP20,948)-a-pair ticketed flight. They were let through after a short delay.

A source says, "As a rule, first class passengers who pay out thousands of pounds for their seats are dressed immaculately. This was something of a one-off.

"It was highly embarassing when Chris and Gwyneth arrived at the first class check in desk.

"Initially it was thought they were down and outs and had stopped to ask for directions. It wasn't until they produced their tickets people realised who they are. Then the rules had to be checked to determine if they were allowed in the luxury cabin in such attire.

"The couple were very friendly and behaved perfectly with the minimum of fuss.

"Chris and Gwyneth clearly didn't want to be spotted and dressed accordingly but it nearly cost them their flight."