I had the pleasure of working with Michael at DNW for about 6-months as a sort of apprenticeship - I met him at CoinEx 2006 where we got chatting. He mentioned an opening at DNW for a post room boy, and I bit his hand off! He also hinted that he might be retiring, and as such they would be in need of a cataloguer... I figured that if I had my foot in the door (well, basement at least!), I might be in with a shot! Needless to say, he didn't retire (nor showed any signs that this was even a consideration) and the 10-12hours days (plus 90min each-way commute) seemed slightly pointless without that particular carrot to drag me out of bed in the morning. Handling and packaging the coins and medals was one (albeit fantastic) thing, but it was the attraction of the possible progression that drew me in! I sometimes regret not continuing there, but I don't think I'd have the life I have now if I hadn't. I particularly enjoyed many a chat with Michael about this, that and the other, discussing the Gooners latest performance and Michael regaling me with numerous tails of his myriad of experiences. Whether it was a lunchtime trip to various Mayfair pubs, sitting in the Viewing Room or courtyard at 16 Bolton Street with a coffee, slice of toast and lime marmalade and a fag (for Michael - one of those black things he used to enjoy so much!), conversation was always easy and enlightening, and despite my numerous ill-informed comments or dumb questions, he always took the time to explain things to me in a way that was straightforward and in no way condescending or patronising. I very much enjoyed those brief few months, and learnt more in that time than in all the rest of my years as a collector! Rest in peace Michael, you will not be forgotten.