Mike sadly passed away on Tuesday 10th March, having been diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in May 2025. We have been so touched by the many messages of condolence from friends, family, work colleagues and the Bedford Blues family. We thank you for sharing your memories, photos and stories of Mike — it means so much to hear how much he was loved by so many.

Mike was a true family man who had a remarkable way of filling any room with his big sense of humour, gritty determination, loyalty and hard graft. It has been wonderful to see those qualities reflected in the stories his friends have shared.

Mike was a dedicated semi-professional rugby player with Bedford Blues, making 239 appearances for the club between 2008 and 2017, having joined from North Walsham RFC. Mike scored 15 tries for Bedford in what was a successful period for the club, including reaching the final of the British & Irish Cup in 2010–11 and finishing in the Championship’s top four on six occasions. In recognition of his commitment he was awarded a testimonial match in May 2017. Mike also represented England Counties in Korea and Japan in 2009. Alongside his rugby career, Mike worked in electrical and mechanical plumbing for companies including Box and Charnock, Rolec and Wheelers, most recently serving as Contracts Manager at Jarrett Plumbing and Heating. We thank everyone at Jarrett's for all their amazing support whilst Mike was ill.

It was Mike’s wish to have a direct cremation with no service. Instead, we would love people to remember him in whatever way feels right for them— whether that’s raising a glass in his name, ticking something off your travel bucket list, or enjoying a huge, hearty meal in true Mike style.

The Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice in Norwich cared for Mike in his final months with extraordinary kindness, dignity and compassion. We will be eternally grateful to Dr Holland and every member of the incredible team- the doctors, nurses, health care assistants, physios, complementary therapists and volunteers who helped to looked after him. The support they gave, not only to Mike, but to all of us as a family, meant more than we can ever express.

If you would like to make a donation in Mike's memory, it would be hugely appreciated. Please share widely so we can raise as much as possible in Mike's name, helping the Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice continue their remarkable work supporting other families when they need it the most.

Sending much love to everyone who knew him and like us, are feeling the loss of such a special man.

With love from Nicki, Sue, Richard, Chris, Charlotte, William and Flossy Howard xx