Inker Mike Esposito dies, aged 83

Long-serving comic book inker Mike Esposito has passed away at the age of 83.

Best known for his work on DC titles, the industry veteran frequently collaborated with his childhood friend Ross Andru.

The pair worked together on comics such as Action Comics, Wonder Woman and Metal Men for the publisher. Esposito also inked for Marvel under the pseudo name Mickey Demeo.

Writing on his website News From Me, comic writer Mark Evanier paid tribute to his former colleague.

He said: "Mike was a jovial, dependable gent who was trusted by editors and liked by his peers. In the '70s, he gave assisting work to a number of young artists, helping them to learn the industry and gain a foot in the door.

"He was also a good friend to other inkers, always ready to aid a colleague with a deadline problem."

He added: "For many years, friends tried to persuade him to travel to San Diego to be honoured and interviewed at the Comic-Con International but he always declined, citing health problems and a reticence to fly.

"I'm sorry we never got him to make the trip because I think he would have been surprised and overwhelmed to learn how many fans he had."