Sir Paul McCartney has hired Prince Charles's divorce lawyer.

Fiona Shackleton, nicknamed Steel Magnolia for her tough reputation, represented Charles during his divorce from the late Princess Diana in 1996.

A source close to the former Beatle told the Sunday Mirror, "Paul wanted the best and believes in Fiona he has got it. She is hugely respected in legal circles and incredibly tough. This shows Paul is fully prepared if this divorce turns into a bitter battle and is determined to see it through."

McCartney announced that he was separating from Heather Mills in May this year.