McCartney vies for 'icon' title

Sir Paul McCartney said he has no plans to retire

Veteran musician Sir Paul McCartney is one of three British celebrities in the running for the title of the nation's greatest living icon.

The former Beatle will go up against singer Morrissey and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough in the BBC poll.

The three were ranked ahead of David Bowie, Sir Michael Caine and five other famous faces in the survey, conducted by BBC Two's Culture Show programme.

The eventual winner, decided by public vote, will be announced on 16 December.

Before that, Sir Paul will be a guest presenter on Classic FM next Thursday as part of a day of programming dedicated to his life and work.

The 64-year-old is currently promoting his latest classical album, Ecce Cor Meum (Behold My Heart).

'Insecure'

However, it is his personal life rather than his music that has dominated headlines of late.

Pop singer Morrissey and Sir David Attenborough are also shortlisted

In an interview with the Radio Times, McCartney - currently embroiled in an acrimonious divorce dispute with estranged wife Heather Mills - confirms he has sought psychiatric help in the past.

"I've seen psychiatrists in my time," he is quoted as saying. "It's not a bad idea to have someone to talk to.

"It's normally over family matters," he continues.

The singer also admits to being "occasionally insecure" but says he has no plans to retire.

"I don't anticipate ever giving up. They'll have to wheel me on to the stage."