Mike (George) Burkes, who has died aged 68, worked for the Birmingham Evening Mail for more than 40 years.
He joined the Mail, having served as a photographer in the RAF during his National Service, when he was stationed at nearby Wellesbourne aerodrome in Warwickshire He enjoyed an award-winning career and is warmly remembered by colleagues including Birmingham Evening Mail chief photographer Bunny Hess.
“When Mike Burkes joined us, we already had a Mike in the darkroom so he immediately became ‘George’ for some reason now lost in the mists of time.
“He was thereafter always known as George by all the journalists on the Post & Mail.
“George was a first rate newspaper photographer and picture editor with a thoughtful and caring attitude to everyone he met.
“As an ex-colleague I am thankful I had the privilege of working alongside this gentleman of the press.
“When I retired he took over the role of chief photographer from me, and continued to show the same kindness and courtesy to everyone he met and worked with.” Mike leaves behind a wife Sandra and two children.
Andy Skinner
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