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.
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“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.
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“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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