Gary Lineker and his wife Danielle divorce 'via Government website'

The couple has vowed to stay the 'best of friends' after amicable split

Gary Lineker and Danielle (Getty Images )

A divorce can spiral into court battles costing hundreds of thousands just in legal fees, something Liam Gallagher and Nicole Appleton recently demonstrated with their £800,000 split.

But Gary Lineker and his wife Danielle, a model, appear to have avoided a costly and acrimonious divorce after six years of marriage. The pair confirmed their split on Wednesday, with both sharing Twitter messages describing their status as “the best of friends”.

Lineker, 55, and Danielle, 36, reportedly sat down together to file a “value divorce” on a Government website, which costs just £400. A source told The Sun: “They didn’t use any solicitors and filed for divorce using a government website where they filled out the forms together. It cost about £400, rather than tens of thousands in legal bills.

“They made a great couple but their different views on having children is what made them realise they had to split. They both know it is the right thing to do and are looking forward to the future. They are convinced they will stay friends.”

News of their divorce has generated much interest and The Match of the Day presenter criticised the paparazzi he claimed had come to his home and were following him around on Wednesday.

“The warmth towards us has been incredible today,” he wrote on Instagram. “These kind chaps actually came to the house this morning and are now following me everywhere. How wonderfully supportive."

A spokesman for the couple said: “Gary and Danielle have decided to end their marriage.

“They remain the greatest of friends and wish each other every happiness.”

The Independent has contacted Lineker’s agent for comment.