A neighbour of Sir Paul and Lady Mills McCartney has spoken of her disappointment over their split.

Astrologer June Penn, who lives next door to Sir Paul and Heather in Western Esplanade, Hove, said the couple were good neighbours and she wished them well for the future.

Ms Penn said: "It's such a shame. When they first moved in they were so happy together and looked so in love.

"Heather came back the week before last to recuperate with her baby and her sister.

"I noticed Heather was by herself but I figured Paul must have been busy. I didn't think anything of it but when he didn't come back the whole week I wondered if something was wrong. They were so lovely together. I'm very sad they have broken up."

After weeks of tabloid speculation the couple issued a joint statement on Wednesday announcing their four-year marriage was over.

It said: "Having tried exceptionally hard to make our relationship work given the daily pressures surrounding us, it is with sadness that we have decided to go our separate ways.

"Our parting is amicable and both of us still care about each other very much but have found it increasingly difficult to maintain a normal relationship with constant intrusion into our private lives.

"Separation for any couple is difficult enough but to have to go through this so publicly, especially with a small daughter, is immensely stressful. We hope, for the sake of our baby daughter, that we will be given some space and time to get through this difficult period."