MARVEL Comics is proving it has moved with the times with the introduction if its first gay character.

Rawhide Kid will star in a five issue special next month where he is shown saving a quiet town from a gang of outlaws.

Although the hero gunslinger does not openly declare his sexuality, creators say it will be clearly implied.

But the character is no sensitive flower; "Whenever a straight guy makes fun of him, the next panel is the Rawhide Kid just smashing into the guy's face. But he does it with great humour and panache."

Hmmm, try telling that to the judge.