Allan Ahlberg, one of Britain’s most cherished children’s authors, has died aged 87.

Before becoming a writer, Ahlberg worked as a postman, plumber and gravedigger, eventually training as a teacher. In 1975, he and his wife Janet Ahlberg – a gifted illustrator – published their first book together, marking the beginning of a remarkable creative partnership.

Over his prolific career, Ahlberg wrote more than 150 books, including The Jolly Postman, which won the Kurt Maschler Award and sold over six million copies. Other much-loved titles include Funnybones, Peepo!, and Each Peach Pear Plum, which earned Janet Ahlberg the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal. Their festive sequel, The Jolly Christmas Postman, also received the same honour.

In 2014, Ahlberg famously declined a lifetime achievement award upon learning it was sponsored by Amazon, citing concerns over the company’s tax practices.

His warmth, wit and enduring stories touched generations of readers and he will be deeply missed.