Illustrator David Sutherland famous for the Beano comic strip Bash Street Kids has died.
The talented illustrator who was behind some of Beano's biggest names including Dennis The Menace had been awarded a prestigious gong in the New Year's Honours just weeks prior to his tragic death.
The devastating news was confirmed by the publishing house DC Thomson who took to Twitter, writing: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of David Sutherland OBE.
"David joined Beano in 1959 as a freelance contributor and over the last 63 years has become one of the most important Beano artists in its history."
Meanwhile, Bean editor John Anderson commented: "No one will ever repeat what David achieved over 60 years. He was one of a kind, a genuine legend. It is the end of an era.
"Given that David started working for DC Thomson in 1959 and had been drawing The Bash Street Kids since 1962, he is the single most important illustrator in Beano history."
Speaking of her late husband, David's wife Margaret said: "David only put his pen down last month when he took ill. Drawing was his life; it made us forget the age he was.
"He was getting older but we never noticed it. He just kept going and the editors remained happy with his work."
David first made a name for himself illustrating The Bash Street Kids in 1962 and was active at work until his death, with his last illustration and first with the byline David Sutherland OBE being released on Wednesday [February 1].
His other credits for the legendary comic include Rasher, Korky The Cat and General Jumbo.
Fans have since flocked to social media to share their condolences, with one writing: "RIP David Sutherland. I loved his art when I was a boy in the 60s & I feel the same today. His career was indeed long & distinguished. But on a personal note, as I know I’ve often said, he created my fav-ever cover & it has brought me such joy. Thank you so much, Mr Sutherland."
"RIP David Sutherland. Absolute legend. Entertained throughout mine and my kid's youth. Bash St Kids was always my favourite strip, always made me laugh. Huge loss to the industry. Condolences to the family," wrote a second.
Before a third went on to say: "I loved the Bash Street Kids & Dennis the Menace & the Beano generally. Such good fun. Thank you to David Sutherland for bringing it all to life for us. Rest easy."
