Mike, who hails from Astley Bridge, Bolton started playing aged 11 with the Besses Boys organisation. He moved onto Bolton Youth Band before joining Eatons Farnworth in 1992 where he helped the band win the third section national finals in London the same year.

Mike went on to play for Walkden and Bolton (Hoover) Band before moving to Preston through work commitments.

Mike joined Freckleton Band in 1998 where he had four great years under the fine direction of Paul Dalton. In january 2003 Mike was offered and accepted the 2nd baritone position at Fodens.

The highlights of Mike's banding career have been winning the British Open in 2004, the MCM Festival of Brass in 2005 under Bram Tovey and playing a quartet with Fodens at the Bridgewater Hall in the same year.

Mike is also an avid supporter of Bolton Wanderers and is a season ticket holder.