Sir Paul was first choice for Hyde Park

SIR PAUL MCCARTNEY was approached to headline this year's Hard Rock Calling festival.

The former Beatle was organiser's first choice to top the bill on Saturday night, according to the Daily Star.

In the end, the slot went to legendary singer Neil Young - who was joined by Sir Paul halfway through his encore.

A source said: "Macca held a lot of talks with Hard Rock Calling about headlining the show. He has been gigging and still had shows coming up in America this year but has yet to do something on home turf in 2009.

"Paul was really keen on HRC but things didn't come together."

McCartney appeared with Young on stage on Saturday to sing the Beatles hit A Day In The Life.

Young, Bruce Springsteen and The Killers headlined the three day event at London's Hyde Park.