A glitzy celebration saw famous faces and high-profile figures descend on the city to celebrate all things queer.
In 2018, Liverpool was announced to be the host city for the year’s Gay Times Honours ceremony - it was the first time the awards had been held outside of London. The event, which was held in Liverpool’s Walker Art Gallery, applauded those who had a profound impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ people.
In November of that year, it attracted the likes of soul singer Rebecca Ferguson, Atomic Kitten’s Liz McLarnon and Princess Diana’s former butler Paul Burrell as they took over the city for the night.
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The catalogue of celebrities didn’t end there as Harry Styles, Sir Ian McKellen and singer MNEK were among the winners on the night. TV star Sheree Murphy, best known for playing Tricia Dingle in ITV’s Emmerdale, and Being Human actor Russel Tovey also strolled down the red carpet on the night.
Harry Styles received the LGBTQ Advocate Honour after showing support for the LGBTQ+ community by waving pride and trans flags during his headline shows earlier that year - something he is still renowned for doing.
Lord of the Rings Gandalf actor, Sir Ian McKellen, was awarded the Gay Times Honour for Lifetime Achievement. He said: “When I finally made it out of my half-open closet 30 years ago, Gay Times generously put me on its front cover.”
Local figures were also recognised, with a special tribute made to Michael Causer - the 18-year-old Whiston teenager who was beaten to death at a house party - as the year marked the 10th anniversary of his death following a homophobic attack in 2008.
The Albert Kennedy Trust, a charity set up to support young LGBTQ+ people who are homeless or living in a hostile environment, was also honoured.
At the time, then-Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson said: “Our city continues to attract major events but this is particularly special because it brings together inspirational people who have and continue to use their platform to promote and enhance LGBTQ equality all over the world."
All of the honourees were immortalised in a specially commissioned painting. Each portrait was on display for the public to view for two weeks following the award ceremony.
An after-party was held at Liverpool’s Cunard House. Never Forget You singer, MNEK, who was honoured on the night following the stellar release of his debut album, entertained guests as they enjoyed a night filled with free-flowing drinks, canapés and bowl food.
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