Mike has been a friend to me for over 40 years. We first met at university. Although we were doing very different courses we shared a flat during our second year. It was then that I grew to know him well.

I remember going with him to a ‘Slade’ concert  - does anyone remember Noddy Holder? He was transformed from his usual understated self into a grinning dancer lost in the beat of the music. We also went to see ‘The Jam’ , so called ‘punk rockers’. Those that remember them will know they performed in dark suits, white shirts and dark ties. I remember Mike being very puzzled as to why they did that. He wasn't impressed with their music either. He never spent much on himself but had his own distinctive style and a generous spirit. Mike knew what he liked and any form of formality was not his thing.

I remember him, one evening in the Student Union, challenging someone from the Rugby club, seemingly twice his size and width, about his behaviour towards the female bar staff. I was preparing to hustle him out the door before things got ugly. Yet his quiet dignity had its effect. In that, at least, he was well ahead of his time. He had strong feelings rarely expressed that revealed strong principles of fairness.

Our paths diverged when he went on a work placement to Workington. Then on to working at Heathrow terminal 4. We kept in frequent touch over the many years since university. He was always ready to talk and meet up. Generous with his time and of great practical help and advice. He had a particular look, turn of the head and smile when he thought your approach to a problem might not work. He would then give you his thinking which was always better than mine. Mike has been a loyal friend to me. I will miss him greatly.