Instant messenger fans will now be able to insert smileys that feature the face of Amy Winehouse and Noel Gallagher into their online conversations.

Minimise Me, a new service from Microsoft, has launched with a host of celebrity faces, that also include Pete Doherty, Russell Brand and The Queen.

London Mayor Boris Johnson and Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton are also available.

But for those who don't want to choose a celebrity, the application also allows users to create their own emoticon.

(by Jason Gregory)