McCartney, Mills in divorce court

Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills McCartney have appeared at the High Court for the next stage in their divorce proceedings.

The estranged couple both attended a private family hearing in Court 47 of the Queen's Building. The hearing was overseen by Mr Justice Bennett, the BBC reports, and was thought to be a preliminary stage in the divorce battle.

Sir Paul looked cheerful for reporters and photographers as he arrived at left the London court while Mills arrived towing a case of documentation.

The hearing began on Wednesday and was due to continue for a day and a half. Once full proceedings begin the pair will dispute custody of their daughter Beatrice and how to divide property and wealth.