(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Julie Walters has complained that ageism and sexism are still rife in the acting industry.

The 60-year-old British actress is concerned that as she grows older, the roles offered to her in television and film will decrease. However, the BAFTA- award winning woman said that in contrast the same fear does not apply to men.

Julie, who is famed for her big screen roles as Ron Weasleys mother Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter films as well as other movie hits such as Calendar Girls, thinks female film stars should be recognised in their own awards ceremony distinct from male actors.

"Yes, I think so, she said when asked if women actors should have their own awards event by British newspaper The Observer. It's getting better but men still earn more and there are more jobs for them. Ageism is a big thing. Parts for women disappear as you get older."

The brunette actress, who first received attention when she performed various comic roles with fellow British comedienne Victoria Wood, also revealed it shocked and angered her that so many people in the acting industry still dont believe women can be funny.

She said the attitude towards female humour on stage or screen has not changed since she began her comedy career in the late 1970s.

"Oh all the time when Victoria Wood and I did our series, she said in response to being asked if she was patronised when she first started out in her career. There were people asking 'Can women be funny?' People still ask that. It's like asking: 'Can women breathe in and out?'" (C) Cover Media