McCartney faces media after engagement

Sir Paul McCartney said he's over the moon after announcing his engagement to the model and landmine campaigner Heather Mills.

The 59-year-old said the couple were very happy after they ended months of speculation with the announcement.

His bride-to-be said she would not be taking the title of Lady McCartney. "I am not into all that pretence," she said.

Speaking outside his home in St John's Wood, north west London, Sir Paul said: "We are standing here for the cameras and we are very happy. We will get married some time next year."

"When I proposed I was a bit nervous but I managed. We've had a good reception from relatives and friends and from the media."

Showing off her sapphire and diamond engagement ring, which Sir Paul bought in India earlier in the year, Ms Mills, 33, added: "It just all happened all of a sudden. My brother and sister were very pleased. It was very romantic. I am still in shock but I am really happy."

The pair got engaged during a short visit to the Lake District, with the millionaire idol popping the question on Monday.