Celebrities including Emma Thompson, Michael Palin and Sarah Waters have backed a gay human rights group.

The UK-based Kaleidoscope Trust, which campaigns for the rights of LGBT people worldwide, revealed its star supporters in its annual newsletter this week.

Stephen Fry and DJ Paul Gambaccini were also among the organisation’s high profile supporters.

Lance Price, director and founder of the Kaleidoscope Trust, thanked the stars for their backing.

He said: ‘We rely on donations, large and small, to be able to help in parts of the world where the freedoms we enjoy are just a distant dream.

‘A number of high-profile individuals have made very generous contributions. But, of course, all the small donations through our website are every bit as important to us.’

Price admitted the Trust has failed to meet its fundraising target for last year, but is optimistic about the year ahead.

He added: ‘It sounds like a cliché, but together we really can make a difference.’