Divorce negotiations between Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills have collapsed, and the next stage in the couple’s acrimonious split will be fought out in open court, it was reported today.

The estranged couple had hoped to reach a settlement in private, avoiding the cost and publicity of a court hearing.

But, according to the Reuters news agency, a five-day hearing has been scheduled in February after they failed to reach agreement during a closed session at the family court.

The Evening Standard reported that the stumbling block at yesterday’s lengthy meeting had been Ms Mills’ refusal to accept a gagging order as part of any deal.

More details to follow.

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