Sir Paul McCartney has announced details of two intimate UK gigs in the week before Christmas.

The singer will play London's Hammersmith Apollo on December 18 - a venue he first played with The Beatles in 1964.

The gig will be followed by a performance at the Academy in Liverpool on December 20.

"I always love playing to a home audience and for me it's the perfect way to end the year,” Sir Paul said. “We've had great fun with the stadium shows this year and we're looking forward to the more intimate vibe of these ones.

"Christmas is the perfect excuse for everyone to let their hair down and rock out. We are looking forward to celebrating with the good people of London and Liverpool."

Tickets go on sale on Wednesday (December 8) at 10am.

(by Jason Gregory)