He led a team of celebrities who turned up at the station's London studios to wish her a happy 28th birthday during her breakfast show.

Other stars included Spice Girl Mel C, Natalie Imbruglia, Sting, Simon Le Bon, gardener Alan Tichmarsh and her co-host from BBC One's Live & Kicking, Jamie Theakston.

Zoe Ball: Left speechless

After Mr Bennett, 72, appeared in the studio, Ms Ball said: "It's not very often that I am lost for words, but I haven't been able to speak for about five minutes.

"Yes, Zoe Ball has finally shut up."

Bennett said: "This is some birthday - it's a great celebration. Everyone's having such a good time."

Her father, children's TV presenter Johnny Ball, also serenaded her on the phone and her mother Julia came in to give her more flowers.