Walking Dead artist - from Shropshire - named UK's new Comics Laureate

Charlie Adlard, from Shrewsbury, was given the accolade at the international Comic Art Festival in Kendal, Cumbria.

The biennially elected role of Comics Laureate is an educational position designed to raise awareness of the impact that comics can have in literacy and creativity, and involves visits to schools, libraries and other education institutions across the country.

Mr Adlard, 50, said the powers of comics in helping young people should not be ignored, and he hoped to share their magic with a wider audience.

He said: "I'm delighted and deeply honoured to be appointed as the Comics Laureate. The power of comics to encourage learning and develop literacy shouldn't be underestimated.

"Comics can connect with people who may never pick up a normal book and really help encourage a love of reading."

The Walking Dead, on which Mr Adlard worked, has been a huge hit in graphic novel form, before being converted to a major American TV series.

Mr Adlard will officially take over the role in February when he will replace the current Comics Laureate Dave Gibbons.