Star gives pupils lesson on discrimination

Hollywood star Sir Ian McKellen has given pupils at an East Lothian secondary school a lesson on discrimination.

The star of X-Men, Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit visited Ross High in Tranent to tell how it felt to grow up gay at a time when homosexual activity was illegal.

He urged the pupils to challenge all forms of discrimination and celebrate diversity.

Headteacher Dorothy 
Bartholomew said: “The great man set our school buzzing and inspired us to think about the impact of our words on others. He brought everyone together with compassion and honesty.”

Deputy head Neil Chisholm added: “The visit has well and truly put equal and positive treatment of all individuals – regardless of background, beliefs or orientation – at the heart of collegiate school belief.”