Children’s author and illustrator David McKee, best known for books including Elmer and Mr Benn, has died aged 87.

The Devon-born writer sold more than 10 million copies of his books around the world and won a number of awards.

His publisher, Andersen Press, announced the news in a statement, adding that he died following a “short illness”, in the south of France where he spent much of his later life.

They said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of David McKee, beloved author and illustrator for children, and creator of iconic children’s books Elmer, Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn.

“All at Andersen Press hope his spirit lives on for many more generations through his joyful, heartfelt stories.”

During his early career, McKee sold comic drawings to magazines and newspapers such as The Times Educational Supplement, Punch and the Reader’s Digest.

His debut book, Two Can Toucan, was published in 1964 by Klaus Flugge while he was working at Abelard-Schuman.

Children and teenage entrepreneurs are turning to social media and cryptocurrency to earn money online

‘Cut phonics teaching’: Vital improvements needed in how we teach children to read, say 250 teachers and academics

Does England’s child protection system need reform?

Mr Flugge established Andersen Press in 1976, where McKee would publish more than 50 books through the house.

Elmer was published in 1968 by Dobson Publishing but after updated illustrations and publication by Andersen Press in 1989, it became an international sensation.

Mr McKee wrote and illustrated 29 original Elmer books, which have collectively been translated into more than 60 languages.

Meanwhile Mr Benn, started as a children’s picture book in 1967 and later became a BBC TV series.

The story follows an explorer as he leaves his house in London, before being transformed at a fancy dress shop and entering another world appropriate to his outfit.

Tributes for the much-loved children’s author have poured in.

Mr Flugge said: “I am devastated by the sudden death of my best friend, David McKee. He was as close to Andersen Press as I am.

“He was there from the very beginning and essential to the origin of the company. He became great friends with everyone he encountered – staff, authors and illustrators alike.

“His was a singular voice and a shining light in children’s books that highlighted inclusivity, diversity and parts of our world that are not always present in publishing for children.”

The Department of Education said “generations of children” have enjoyed the author’s iconic books, while reading charity BookTrust said it was “devastated” by the news.

Related posts:

Dame Helen Mirren to take on her first superhero film role as Shazam! sequel villain Michaela Coel ‘processed her own trauma’ while writing I May Destroy You Arrested Development actress Jessica Walter dies aged 80 Taylor Swift releases first of six unheard tracks from her re-recorded Fearless album Influencer culture: MPs launch inquiry into absence of laws around paid adverts R Kelly’s ex-tour manager bribed official for fake ID so singer could marry 15-year-old Aaliyah, court hears Johnny Rotten loses High Court battle to stop Sex Pistols songs being used in new TV series ‘We asked for a miracle, we were given two’: Little Mix star gives birth to twins BBC ‘losing talent’ like Phoebe Waller-Bridge in ‘red hot’ battle with rivals, top boss warns Making the music of tomorrow: Chic frontman Nile Rodgers among stars at Ivor Novello Awards R Kelly prosecutor says singer hid his crimes in ‘plain sight’ as abuse trial nears end Coldplay will stop making new music in 2025, says Chris Martin