McCartney denies love affair

Paul McCartney sang backing vocals for Ms Mills' charity single

Sir Paul McCartney and model Heather Mills have both denied rumours of a romance between them, saying their relationship is purely professional.

The ex-Beatle and the former swimwear model, who lost her leg in an accident six years ago, have been recording a single to raise money for people who have lost limbs in war zones, they said.

A close friend of Miss Mills, 31, said the model had been spending time with the former Beatle since they met at a charity event this year.

Heather Mills with millionaire Richard Branson

But a statement issued on behalf of Miss Mills said her recent attendance at a party hosted by Sir Paul was perfectly innocent.

"He happened to be having a bonfire party ... and said if we fancied coming along, we were more than welcome.

"We did and had a great time, stayed at the guest house a second night to avoid a long journey home, as did many other guests, and left the following morning.

"We have met up on a number of previous occasions in many locations to discuss the production of the record and the charity's work in general."

Business relationship

Sir Paul, who lost his wife Linda to breast cancer 19 months ago, said: "Because I work with these ladies does not mean I am having anything other than a business relationship with them.

"I will continue to work with Heather Mills on the recording project and even though this story (of romance) is not true, I hope it will bring attention to her worthwhile efforts for the disabled worldwide."

Sir Paul was consoling family members after the death of his uncle.

A close friend of Sir Paul added: "It is true that Paul has been involved for a number of weeks with work concerning the Heather Mills Health Trust.

"This meant she was at Paul's studio and along with 50 other guests was invited to his annual bonfire party. Beyond this, there is no further connection."

In turn a spokeswoman for Miss Mills said: "She needed a backing vocalist, this is where Paul McCartney comes in."

In April, Sir Paul dismissed reports of a relationship with textiles designer Sue Timney as "extremely distasteful".

Like Miss Mills, Ms Timney, 52, had been working with Sir Paul, this time exhibiting photographs taken by Linda.