HEATHER Mills has been awarded custody of her daughter following her split with Sir Paul McCartney, a friend claimed yesterday.

US publicist Michele Elyzabeth told a TV show that a London court last week granted the former model custody of Beatrice, two and a half, with Sir Paul given visiting rights.

But Ms Mills's UK publicist Anya Noakes denied the claims, saying: "There have been no discussions yet about custody or settlements. This is all pure speculation." Heather, 38, and Sir Paul, 63, split last month after four years together.