I first got to know Mike around 1990. Firstly, as a student, along with Tony Richards, and then both as colleagues. A few years on, I became a full time member of academic staff and Mike was the first to welcome me. He showed great kindness, incredible patience, and provided solid sound advice as a mentor. Mike was not only a warm, funny and kind man, he was someone you could confide in and trust. I missed Mike when he retired and told him so, his response? 'Ahh shurrup yer daft bugger'