ACTOR Sir Ian McKellen has been named a “Homo Hero” at a prestigious awards ceremony. The Lord of the Rings star was named as the Lesbian, Gay Or Bisexual Role Model of the Year at the inaugural Homo Hero awards, which were held at Manchester’s Mint Hotel.

A spokeswoman for the Lesbian and Gay Foundation said: “Sir Ian was the only celebrity to pick up an award and I think that says a lot about how the community see him.

“He is respected all over the world for his film and theatre work, but he never forgets his roots and still helps a number of local lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans charities.

“His work in schools is incredibly important, the fact that he is so recognisable as Gandalf and he goes into UK schools to talk to young people about the damage homophobic bullying — and all forms of bullying — can do.

“Our congratulations go to Sir Ian and all the other nominees and winners.” Sir Ian, who is a former Bolton School pupil, was unable to collect his award in person as he was on stage in The Syndicate in Milton Keynes.