Ian McKellen named Role Model of the Year

{jcomments off}Sir Ian McKellen, star of the X Men and Lord of the Rings films, has been named Role Model of the Year at the 2011 Homo Hero Awards.

The openly gay actor was named Role Model of the Year for gay, lesbian and bisexuals at the a ceremony held in Manchester. The Homo Hero Awards recognise people for their work towards gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities. Sir Ian McKellen was just one of several people who were recognised on the evening.

Actress Heather Pearce, who stars in BBC Three’s lesbian drama Lip Service, also picked up an award. The actress is known for her appearances in dramas such as London’s Burning and Ultimate Force. Pearce picked up the Community Champion of the Year Award.