Singer Sir Cliff Richard has revealed his close friendship with an ex-priest who he shares his life with.

In his revealing autobiography, My Life, My Way, published yesterday, the legendary crooner calls Father John McElynn who he shares his home with, his 'companion' and 'blessing'.

Sir Cliff, 67, met the former Roman Catholic priest during a trip to New York in 2001 and said that McElynn took a break from the priesthood soon after.

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Best buddies: Sir Cliff Richard speaks of his close friendship with ex-priest John McElynn (right) in his new book

The star writes: 'He hadn't any thought at the beginning of giving up the priesthood, but when it became clear he was thinking of the possibility, I suggested he might help me with some charitable projects.

'That was seven years ago and our arrangement has worked out really well. John now spends most of his time looking after my properties.

Telling all: Sir Cliff met fans and signed copies of his book yesterday

'He has become a companion, which is great because I don't like living alone, even now.'

Sir Cliff, a devoted Christian, met fans and signed copies of his book yesterday.

His private life has often been the subject of much speculation and the book attempts to cover many subjects, including voicing his approval for same-sex partnerships.

'Same sex marriages are perhaps a modern example of how things have changed', Sir Cliff said.

'Gone are the days when we assumed loving relationships would be solely between men and women.

'It seems to me that commitment is the issue and if anyone comes to me and says: "This is my partner - we are committed to each other" then I don't care what their sexuality is.'

The veteran performer, who has sold over 250million records, also takes the opportunity to hit back at those who question his personal life.

He writes: 'I am sick to death of the media's speculation about it. What business is it of anyone else's what any of us are as individuals? I don't think my fans would care either way.'

Relationship: Sir Cliff Richard says he came close to proposing to Sue Barker

Sir Cliff also reveals how he nearly ended his famous 'bachelor boy' days by coming close to marriage.

'Of all the women I've known, there were only two that I've come close to marrying. One was Jackie Irving, a dancer whom I met in Blackpool. She was utterly beautiful and for a while we were inseparable.

'The other girl I came close to asking was Sue Barker, whom I met in 1982.

'I seriously contemplated asking her to marry me, but in the end I realised that I didn't love her quite enough to commit the rest of my life to her. There were no broken hearts.'