MORE than 250 people gathered this evening for the launch of this year's Bolton Pride and to celebrate those who work hard for the LGBT community.

The second Bolton Pride Diversity Awards 2016 was staged at the Bolton Whites Hotel.

Five awards were presented which were voted for by the public, with more than 600 people casting their vote and two special awards were handed out recognising the exceptional work done by individuals.

Among them, the Sir Ian McKellen Award was presented to Christine Riley, the landlady of The Star and Garter, who has provided a safe space for members of the LGBT community .

And the Darren Batey Award went to Judith Kramer for her volunteer work at the George House Trust.

Mark Geary, of Bolton Pride, said: "The LGBT community deserve Bolton's recognition, not just tonight but everyday to show they are valued and recognised by the Bolton community."