The OASIS star received a zoo’s certificate of sponsorship for Jimmy at his birthday bash at London’s cool Kitts on Saturday night. The Manc musician always joked that when he became famous he wanted a pink Rolls Royce, top hat, mirrored sunglasses and a pet monkey. And now he’s got the lot.

Noel has grafted for the last 15 years to earn “legendary” status thanks to a back catalogue of timeless tunes. He has also rewritten the book on how to be a true rock ’n’ roll star.

Here I’ve spoken to some of his pals. Their goodwill messages show what a top bloke he is . . . PAUL WELLER said: “Happy birthday Noel mate. Here’s to the next 40 years.” Italian football maestro ALESSANDRO DEL PIERO said: “Hey Noel how are you? So, finally, today you’re supposed to become sorta adult? I’d like to wish you all the best and many many happy returns of the day, man. You’re one of the most gifted artists in the world and a good supporter of myself and of the Italian national team too. You know we’ll have plenty of great memories to share (remember Dortmund and Berlin?) when we turn 80. Take care, keep rockin’ and always keep the dream alive!”

Another close pal is SERGE PIZZORNO from KASABIAN. He said: “Noel is one of the greatest songwriters of all time and a proper, genuine geezer. He's an inspiration to our generation both as a musician and man.”

Former M PEOPLE star MIKE PICKERING is a regular at Man City games with Noel. Mike, who now works in A&R and signed THE GOSSIP, said: “I’m a decade older than Noel but I still look a lot better than him because I searched for the hero inside myself, and found it. Happy birthday mate.”

Prince of Darkness OZZY OSBOURNE said: “Happy Birthday Noel. Oasis are the best band in the world.”

Manchester City veteran MIKE SUMMERBEE said: “Apart from being a great musician, he is very sincere and a nice person. People just see that image he portrays in the band but he is a superb fella. I am very privileged to have been in his company and be called a friend. I’d like to wish him a happy 40th.”

TIM LOVEJOY presents one of the Gallagher brothers’ favourite TV shows, Soccer AM. He told me: “While most of the music industry are caught up in their bizarre promotion and PR circus, Noel is still true rock ’n’ roll. He does and says what he wants and always entertains. That’s why, to use his favourite word, he’s colossal.”

But it was This Is England star STEPHEN GRAHAM who paid Noel the ultimate compliment. He said: “Noel is a true living legend. He’s a massive inspiration — almost as good as KENNY DALGLISH.”

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