I have known Mike (and Pauline) all my life and I have always called them Uncle Mike and Auntie Pauline, they have felt like part of my extended family. Mike felt like the Grandfather I never really had, and I am so grateful for his love and care.

I have fond memories playing on the beach at Kessingland with Tracey when we both very small! As I grew older I remember going to the Bethel chapel, Sunday School parades and crazy antics at the family camps in Devon.

When I was baptised as a teenager in the Anglican church, I was pleased to be able to choose Mike (and Pauline) as God parents. Being a good Baptist by then, I am not sure Mike knew what this meant but he placed my photograph on his mantelpiece alongside his beloved girls and told me he prayed for me daily. As my mum has already expressed, I am deeply grateful for those prayers.

When I got married in 1996, I asked Mike if he could pray for us during our wedding service. I still recall his prayers spoken from the heart as he remembered a time when I injured myself as a 2 year old. Rather embarrassing at a wedding and he was not even the Best Man! But it showed the depth of Mike's care, love and compassion that has been shown to me over so many years.

In 2002, I felt called to the Anglican ministry and had to go to Ely for a selection interview. I took the opportunity to spend a few days before my interview to stay with the Beales and Mike prayed for me every night I stayed and I am certain he prayed for me as I was interviewed over the next couple of days, as I was duly selected for training.

Nearly 20 years later, I am still an Anglican Priest but have strong interest in prayer which I am sure has been passed onto me from my Godfather. So thank you Mike and I know you are still smiling on us all from heaven. With all my love and I look forward to seeing you there.

My love too goes to Pauline and Sue, Tracey, Tina and Julie who have become part of my family too. I share your grief and still pray for you all too.