Australian supermodel Elle Macpherson and partner Arpad Busson have announced that are separating. The couple, who have two sons, said that "whilst remaining the greatest of friends, we have decided to spend some time apart to consider our future".

They said no third party was involved.

"We have had, and in many ways continue to have, a wonderful relationship, which has produced two beautiful children," said the statement, which appealed for privacy.

Macpherson, 42, and Swiss financier Busson are parents of Flynn, 7, and 2-year-old Aurelius Cy.