Leona Lewis has been named animal rights group PETA's Person of the Year for 2008.

The former X Factor winner has often spoken publicly of her vegetarianism, and insisted that she doesn't buy anything made from animal products.

She is also understood to have decided against opening the Harrods Winter Sale last year because the London department store stocked fur.

PETA's Europe Director Robbie LeBlanc said: "Leona Lewis is admired for her beautiful voice, but it's her kindness to animals that makes her a superstar in our book."

Earlier this year, the animal rights group, whose supporters' include Sir Paul McCartney, also crowned Lewis the Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity.

Last year's PETA Person of the Year was Sir Paul's daughter, Stella McCartney.

(by Jason Gregory)