Sir Paul McCartney underwent a heart operation last year, it has emerged.

Sir Paul, 65, had a coronary angioplasty – a procedure that opens up the arteries to allow greater blood-flow – after complaining of feeling unwell.

The singer had a stressful year, in which he sought to settle an acrimonious divorce from his estranged wife, Heather Mills. His performance on the BBC Two New Year’s EveHootenanny, presented by Jools Holland, was recorded on December 13, after Sir Paul had recovered from the private hospital operation.

Dr Thomas Stuttaford, The Times doctor, said fatty deposits could build up if a patient ate too much fatty food, was overweight, took too little exercise or if there were hereditary factors. Stress could also play a role.

A spokesman for Sir Paul said: “Tests were carried out and the decision was taken to operate. It was all very routine but any work on your heart is a big deal.” He added that Sir Paul was “in very good shape. He does regular exercise and is fit.”

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