Heather Mills Joins Us Strictly Come Dancing

It's a fair bet that her choice of backing tracks won't include the Beatles' I'm Happy Just to Dance With You.

Heather Mills, the estranged wife of Sir Paul McCartney, is hoping to tango away her troubles by taking part in the next series of the US version of Strictly Come Dancing.

Talkshow host Jerry Springer, a former contestant on Dancing With the Stars, yesterday revealed on ABC's Good Morning America that Ms Mills was part of the cast for the upcoming series. The programme has proved a huge hit in the US and around the world after being adapted from the original BBC format.

The former model, who lost a leg following a motorbike accident in 1993, is in the midst of a bitter divorce battle with the former Beatle over custody of their daughter Beatrice and the size of any settlement.

As in the BBC's version of the show, a collection of celebrities, TV hosts and former sports stars are paired with professional dancers to perform a range of routines before being judged by professionals and the viewing public.

Her rivals will include Billy Ray Cyrus, the country singer who had a global hit with Achy Breaky Heart. Other contestants include Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore, Muhammad Ali's daughter Laila Ali, N'Sync singer Joey Fatone, talkshow host Leeza Gibbons, and former Miss USA Shandi Finnessy. Ms Mills said yesterday: "I've always loved dancing and enjoyed a challenge and this is both."

Her decision will increase speculation that she is hoping to forge a new career in the US once her divorce is finalised.

Springer predicted she could be a "sentimental favourite" with the US public.