FORMER Bolton schoolboy Sir Ian McKellen is set to be honoured in his town of birth.

Film fans could soon be flocking to pay homage to the Oscar-nominated star -- who developed his interest in acting while a pupil at Bolton School -- if Burnley historians succeed in getting a commemorative plaque placed outside his childhood home.

Sir Ian, nominated by the Academy for his performance as Gandalf in the blockbuster Lord of the Rings, was born in Scott Park Road, Burnley, in 1939.

Fans have suggested to Burnley Council that a commemorative blue plaque is placed outside the house where he lived for a short period before moving to Bolton.

The idea was put forward by James Howell, a member of Burnley's Historical Society and self-confessed expert on the life of Sir Ian.

Mr Howell, of Admiral Street, Burnley, said: "It would be brilliant if a plaque could go up on the house where he was born. The man himself could even come and unveil it.

"Ian has been a huge inspiration to so many people, especially youngsters wanting to get into acting."

The owners of the Scott Park Road house, Debbie and Bill Slater, had no idea when they bought it that somebody famous had lived there.

Debbie, aged 35, said: "It's amazing to know that the man I went to

watch in the Lord Of The Rings actually lived here. We would be delighted to have the plaque outside." Caroline Baker, conservation planner at Burnley Council said: "We would be quite happy to create a plaque for Sir Ian McKellen but we would need the home owner's consent first and also a sponsor to fund the £200 cost of making one."