LIBERTY X pop star Kevin Simm has been honoured with a place in a men's magazine -- on a list of the world's hottest women!

Liberty X were placed at number two in Maxim's Best Girl Band top ten -- even though two of the singers, Kevin and Tony, are men.

But Kevin, who was brought up in Leyland and went to St Mary's RC High School in the town, has laughed off the suggestion that he is part of a girl band.

He said: "I'm really proud of the girls getting to second in the poll -- though I think they were robbed by tATu -- Kell, Jess and Michelle are definitely prettier.

"As to being in the best girl band, Tony and I aren't taking it too badly. If you look at the list, I think it means more best girls in a pop band. Anyway, seeing as S Club are in the poll as well and, as far as I know, Bradley and Jon from the band aren't that feminine!"

Liberty X, which includes Penwortham's Jessica Taylor, were chosen by readers of Maxim, logging on to the magazine's website.

In this month's issue -- out this week -- Maxim's Hot '100 Women of the Year' were revealed, naming the 100 most attractive, talented and smartly dressed women in nine different categories.

Liberty X were picked as number two in the Best Girl Band section, behind Russian duo tATu, and in front of bands including Sugababes, Destiny's Child and Atomic Kitten.

Michael Hodges, executive editor of Maxim, said: "It was readers' votes. At the beginning we made some suggestions, and we thought Liberty X would do well.

"Kevin is very much not regarded as a lovely lady here at Maxim. We wish him all the best."

He added that Kevin is not pictured in the magazine alongside the female members of the band.