TRIBUTES were paid today to an award-winning author and cartoonist after he and his seriously ill wife were found dead in their home on a remote island.

TRIBUTES were paid today to an award-winning author and cartoonist after he and his seriously ill wife were found dead in their home on a remote island.

The bodies of Richard Horne and his wife Mandy, who had multiple sclerosis, were discovered by a family friend at their house on Burra Isle, Shetland.

Mr Horne, 46, was an award-winning writer, illustrator and political cartoonist who used the name Harry Horse.

He also worked as a political cartoonist for the Evening Times' sister paper The Sunday Herald.

Police have launched an investigation following yesterday's discovery but are not believed to be looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths.

A female relative of Mrs Horne, 39, who asked not to be named, said she had been ill for some time.

"Mandy had been very poorly - she could not speak and could not walk. The family are devastated."

Mr Horne wrote a number of children's books, including The Last Polar Bears, which was made into a television series.

Today his agent, Caroline Sheldon, said: "I represented the brilliant Harry Horse for 15 years as his literary agent and friend. He was a genius both in words and illustrations."

She added: "His partnership with his wonderful wife Mandy was extraordinary. She was his most solid support for years but when she contracted chronic and terminal MS he cared for her.

"He was a man in many ways from another age. Someone very special and different has passed."

It is understood Mr Horne and his wife moved to Burra Isle around a year ago.

Richard Walker, editor of The Sunday Herald, said: "Harry was a remarkable talent and a remarkable man.

"He will be very badly missed. His style was unique and is really irreplaceable."