Wigan's Sir Ian McKellen to be honoured at the UK Theatre Awards

Sir Ian McKellen Credit: Press Association

Sir Ian McKellen will be honoured for his work championing diversity and his commitment to performing on stage when he is given the outstanding contribution to British Theatre prize at the UK Theatre Awards.

The actor, who was born in Burnley and grew up in Wigan, has had a career spanning more than six decades and seen him perform at theatres around the country.

Former Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh has been nominated for best performance in a play for her role in Wit at the Royal Exchange Theatre.

Julie Hesmondhalgh Credit: Press Association

Julian Bird, chief executive of UK Theatre, said:

The awards will take place on October 9, [click here for a full list of nominations]( http://uktheatre.org/training-events/uk-theatre-awards/uk-theatre-awards-2016/).