Tributes paid to Ditchling family man and wine pioneer

Mike co-founded Ridgeview Wine Estate in Ditchling with his wife Chris in 1994.

The vineyards have created award-winning sparkling wines, which have won awards nationally and internationally ever since the first bottles were produced in 1996.

Mardi Roberts, Mike’s daughter-in-law, paid tribute to him on behalf of the family.

“He was such a family man and has achieved getting English wine on the map,” she said.

“We have had an overwhelming response. The one word that keeps popping up is pioneer and he really was that.

“When he first had the idea people were laughing. He has left a wonderful legacy. As a family he has taught us all so much.

“He has always been entrepreneurial. He was a chartered accountant and he always had a very firm vision about what he was going to do in the future. The business had a great financial base to it.”

Mike has passed his passion for the industry on to his children and their families, who now play key roles in the business.

“The wonderful thing is that my sister-in-law has taken over as CEO,” said Mardi.

“He has left the business in really good hands.”

Mike was also chairman of the English Wine Producers.

Julia Trustram Eve, from the EWP, said: “He was without a shadow of a doubt a real figurehead and respected ambassador for the UK wine industry and of course his own beloved Ridgeview.

“In Mike I had the privilege of working with an industry giant, an inspiring example of leadership and direction, a mentor, a wise advisor and friend.”

Mike had been ill for a period of time but the family said his death still came as a shock.

In a statement his family wrote: “Of course we will organise an occasion to celebrate his life – what we’d ask you to do today is to raise a glass to Mike and say ‘cheers’ to what has been a wonderful, fun and hugely fulfilling life.

“We’ll miss him massively.”