Minnelli honoured by Aids charities

Legendary diva Liza Minnelli was tonight being honoured for her contribution to the fight against HIV and Aids.

Minnelli was due to receive an International Hero Award from British charities in recognition of her work to raise awareness of the disease.

She and husband David Gest were attending a charity gala at London’s Dorchester Hotel organised by the UK Coalition of People Living with HIV and Aids (UKC) and Crusaid.

Minnelli was one of the first Hollywood stars to speak out publicly about the disease and campaign for a cure.

She has also worked to raise funds for the US Aids charity Amfar alongside the likes of Barbra Streisand and Elizabeth Taylor.

Her song The Day After That was chosen by the United Nations to launch World Aids Day in 1993.

Minnelli said she was “very honoured” to receive the award, which last year went to Sir Elton John.

She said: “I will do anything in this fight to help find a cure for this devastating disease. Meanwhile, those who are stricken with HIV and Aids need our constant support, help and understanding.

“We have a long way to go in the fight ahead of us and I will always be a part of that battle.”

Cosmetics company MAC was also being honoured with the Corporate Hero Award at tonight’s event, which is hosted by Gaby Roslin.

The firm has raised more than $25m (€23m) for Aids sufferers and their families through the sale of its Viva Glam lipsticks.