SIR Ian McKellen, famed for his roles as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, has given his support to York Pride 2017.

In a video to the charity he calls Pride "terribly important, not just to be yourself and enjoy yourself [on the day], but to do it in the company of others who are trying to do the same thing."

Sir McKellen also praises the participation of all of York’s state secondary schools in the Pride parade, describing it as “enterprising.”

It is not the first time that Sir McKellen has engaged with York’s schools. In 2014, through his work with LGBT charity Stonewall, McKellen visited Fulford School and York High to discuss the importance of celebrating individuality and how students should stand up against prejudice.

York will make history on Saturday as every single one of its state secondary schools takes part in York Pride’s parade from the Minster to the Knavesmire. This is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that an LGBT Pride event has achieved the full inclusion of its local schools.

Students and teachers from York High, Millthorpe, Fulford, Joseph Rowntree, Manor Church of England, Vale of York, Huntington, Archbishop Holgate's, All Saints RC and Tadcaster Grammar Schools will join the parade, along with Bootham and other schools under a 'York area schools supporting York Pride' banner. In total, 13 secondary schools from within and around York will take part.

Greg Stephenson, chairman of York Pride said: "It is absolutely incredible that all of York’s secondary schools are taking part in Pride this year. York Pride has developed excellent relationships with local schools, which have such a pivotal role in supporting LGBT rights and shaping the attitudes of young people growing up in York. To have them all there in our Pride parade will be truly heart-warming and an incredible achievement.”

Across the city, secondary schools have adopted policies which aim to tackle LGBT-phobia and support the celebration of diversity and inclusion. Themed lessons and events will take place at the schools during the lead in to York Pride.

Mary Weastell, chief executive of City of York Council, said: "It speaks volumes about this city and its people that we will break new ground and make such a clear link between our schools and our Pride. Teaching young people about equality and diversity will strengthen our communities and improve life for LGBT people growing up in York. I am delighted to see this achieved here."

David Ellis, Headteacher at York High, commented: "It is wonderful that so many York schools are now involved in York Pride. York High School is very proud to have taken a lead on this vital issue, which affects the well being of so many young people. The positive response of our students has shown that when schools are brave enough to fight prejudice in whatever form their students are fully responsive."

Ryan Wilson, head of English at Joseph Rowntree School, said: “Joseph Rowntree School is incredibly proud to be part of this year’s York Pride celebrations. We are a school committed to promoting and embracing diversity and individuality, and always teach our students the importance of acceptance and tolerance. Staff and students will be marching with pride in the Parade on Saturday 10th June.”

Last year, York Pride had its most successful year to date. It was the highest attended York Pride ever, with an estimated 8,000 people attending the parade and Main Event throughout the day, and the charity looks forward to seeing Pride grow and expand even more in 2017.

The Pride parade will begin at 11.45am on Saturday, starting at The Minster and culminating at The Knavesmire for an afternoon of live music, food, drink, and activities. This year, S-Club Party will headline the main stage and there will be a full fairground for all ages to attend.

To watch the video by Sir McKellen, visit our website: www.yorkpress.co.uk