Ian McKellen given freedom of the City of London

Lord Of The Rings star Sir Ian McKellen has been given the freedom of the City of London in recognition of his work for gay rights.

The actor, who plays Gandalf in Peter Jackson's film trilogy, is one of the founders of campaign group Stonewall UK and also supports Pride London.

Lord Mayor Fiona Woolf called him an "exceptional actor" and a "tireless campaigner for equality".

He was handed the award, dating back to 1237, at London's Guildhall.

Sir Ian also supports The Albert Kennedy Trust which helps homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youngsters.

Earlier this week the award-winning actor, whose career has spanned Shakespeare plays and blockbusters such as X-Men, revealed his latest role in singer George Ezra's new video Listen to the Man.