A host of celebrities have attended a rooftop party to celebrate the launch of Samsung’s highly anticipated smartwatch.

The Galaxy Gear, which will be available to buy from today, allows users to access emails, texts and even make phone calls - without touching their mobile.

It works via a Bluetooth connection with the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 phone, which also goes on sale today.

Presenter Jonathan Ross, former track cyclist Victoria Pendleton and model Donna Air were among the stars who attended tonight’s preview party at the Radio Rooftop Bar in central London.

Ellie Goulding performed at the event, while Daisy Lowe was the DJ.

The party was hosted by Vernon Kay, who joked that he was a fan of the smartwatch, which also features a camera, because “everyone wants to be James Bond”.

Simon Stanford, vice president of Samsung UK, said: “We certainly believe this is the first truly mobile wearable technology in terms of the interaction you can get with this device.

“Anything from making calls, receiving texts, there’s your calendar, the pedometer, a stopwatch, and it’s the most accurate time you’ll ever get.

“This particular product is going to change the way the connected world is going to start moving.”

Mr Stanford said Samsung’s research showed the Gear was “hugely” popular with women, as it can be used when holding a phone is “dangerous or inappropriate”.

He added: “It’s a groundbreaking product. The wearable technology piece with the Note 3 is a real innovative combination of products in the market. It’s pretty unique.”

The recommended retail price for the Gear is £299, while the Note 3 will cost around £599.