Diana's former butler condemns Channel 4 tapes

Paul Burrell tells ITV the tapes will only upset Prince William and Prince Harry. Credit: ITV Yorkshire

Princess Diana's former butler says the controversial tapes showing Diana talking about her marriage and private life should not be broadcast by Channel 4.

Paul Burrell, from Chesterfield, is a former servant of the British Royal Household. He was a footman for Queen Elizabeth II and later butler to Diana, Princess of Wales.

He told ITV Yorkshire that the documentary almost amounts to "raiding her diary".

He thinks that the tapes will "only upset Prince William and Prince Harry."

The broadcaster has been criticised for its plans to show video of the princess talking in private to a voice coach - ahead of the 20th anniversary of her death.

Channel 4 say the tapes offer an "important contribution to the historical record" about the princess.

Titled Diana: In Her Own Words, the documentary sees the Princess of Wales speak candidly about her upbringing, early relationship with Prince Charles and relationship breakdown.