THE father of Heather Mills hid a secret agony from her as she prepared for her wedding to Sir Paul McCartney.

Mark Mills, 61, was rushed to hospital after suffering a stroke but refused to tell his daughter because he did not want to blight her big day.

Mr Mills was delighted when he received an unexpected late invitation to the wedding in Ireland.

Having suffered the stroke, however, he was too ill to travel and stayed at home in Washington, Wearside.

He kept the details of his illness from Heather, wishing her well for the ceremony.

Mr Mills, who first suffered a devastating stroke 15 years ago, said: "It was a very proud day for me and I wish her the very best.

"Heather does not know I have had another stroke recently, and I didn't want her to know in case it spoiled her day.

"I celebrated in my own way, raising a glass to them both at home.

"I did get an invite, which I was pleased about, but I can't communicate on the phone very well with her.

"I can't even step out of my house, never mind travel to Ireland, it would have been just too much for me."

Mr Mills said he blacked out several days ago and his doctor told him he had suffered another stroke.

He added: "It was disappointing to be unable to go, but Paul and Heather make a lovely couple."