Sir Ian McKellen, famed for his performances in Shakespearean plays on the stage and many screen roles, including Gandalf in Lord of the Rings, will be coming to campus as part of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) History Month celebrations and his work with Stonewall, a campaigning charity.

A Lancaster University Honorary Graduate, Sir Ian McKellen will be giving his first public lecture at the University.

He said: “As an Honorary Graduate, I’m delighted to be making my debut at the University. I shall talk about my experience as a gay man, from my childhood in South Lancashire onwards.”

The event, held in the Great Hall at 3pm on Wednesday, February 14, will last for around 90 minutes and will include opportunities for questions from the audience.

Dan Barcroft, Chair of Lancaster University’s LGBT Staff network, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming our honorary graduate Sir Ian McKellen to campus as part of our series of events to mark LGBT History Month. As a member of Stonewall’s Global Diversity Champions scheme, the University is proud to join Sir Ian in promoting a message of tolerance, acceptance and equality as these are integral to our organisational values.

“The LGBT Staff network at the University is open to all LGBT staff and our allies and we work alongside other areas of the University to advance equality and support for LGBT staff and students.”

All places were reserved in 24 hours.