From Peter Le Blond

Michael and I were as different as chalk and cheese and in some ways it is a tribute to the diversity of human personality that we became friends. I think that friendship was forged out of, and sustained by, our common love of the great outdoors. So it was during our many walks on the fells that I came to know and enjoy the company of the gentle man that Michael was. Some of these walks were real tests of our respective characters. Coniston Old Man in March can be a forbidding place - snow all around, ice flows in the tarns and an anorak defying icy wind roaring through one of the Lake Districts aptly named Windy Gaps. Once, returning from a day on the Scafell range, Michael's left shoe decided to disintegrate at Hollow Stones leaving him with a nasty sharp tack sticking into his heel. Beyond attempting to bandage his heel there wasn't much to be done as he had to wear the shoe. I'll always remember the stoicism and fortitude he showed that day as we, somewhat delayed, descended to Wasdale in the glorious evening sun. He showed the same qualities in his work, tenaciously recording the works of Geshe Kelsang. He had a wonderful microphone voice which he combined with his gift for musical composition both talents being put to marvellous effect in his relaxation tapes. I've said to more than one person recently that the world needs people like Michael so, Michael, when you're ready, do come back to the world - it needs you .