John le Carré dies aged 89

John Le Carré, whose books included The Spy Who Came In From The Cold and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, has a career in the secret service and undercover intelligence. When his first novel, Call for the Dead, was published in 1961, he adopted the pseudonym that became a watchword for excellence in spy fiction. His third novel, The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, became an international bestseller and enabled him to write full time.

'John Le Carré was an undisputed giant of English literature,' said his agent, Jonny Geller, in a statement. 'He defined the Cold War era and spoke truth fearlessly to power in the decades that followed.

'His work was read and loved all over the world for six decades. His third novel, The Spy Who Came In From The Cold in 1963 made him the most famous spy writer in the world. His greatest character – George Smiley – appeared in several novels including Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People.

'I represented John for almost 15 years. I have lost a mentor, an inspiration, and most importantly, a friend. We will not see his like again.'

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