Ronnie Wood's lover hits back at critics

Ronnie Wood's new girlfriend Ekaterina Ivanova has insisted that she isn't to blame for the breakdown of his marriage.

Last month, the Rolling Stone dumped Jo Wood, his wife of 23 years, and fled to Ireland with Ivanova. He has since entered rehab to receive treatment for alcoholism, but is vowing to stick by his bargirl lover.

Reports yesterday suggested that Jo has given up hope of a reconciliation with her husband and is planning to make a fresh start in the US.

In a new interview with the News of the World, Ivanova confirmed: "Ronnie is moving on. But I'm not taking someone's husband, he's leaving. I never pursued him."

Ivanova, who recently turned 20, also denied claims that she is only interested in Wood's huge fortune.

"Hopefully people will realise I'm not after his millions, that's not my motivation," she claimed. "Ronnie loves me and it's not about money. I'm looking forward to a fresh start with him. It's sad we've caused people pain. It's hurt his family and my family too, but we've just fallen in love."

A source close to Wood added: "Ronnie feels like he's been reborn and suddenly making decisions for himself. He insists he's in love with Katia."