It was with intense sadness that the Ashridge Estate community learnt of the death of their long standing friend and comrade Michael Bean. 

Like so many of us, both Mike and his wife Carol became involved with Ashridge after retirement and the Estate quickly established a very special place in their hearts where they quickly became popular and much valued members of the Thursday Group.  Mike served with distinction for many years as Chairman of the Friends of Ashridge and was responsible for many of the initiatives which contributed so much to the life and well being of the Estate as well as editing the Friends magazine. 

They shared a great enthusiasm for travel and their stories of adventures shared in many exotic and far away places were an entertaining feature of many group coffee breaks. The forty eight hours they spent marooned on a sandbank up a South American river when their cruise ship ran aground was only one of the many amusing tales they had to tell. 

Mike was a much loved and hard working volunteer who finally fought a long and valiant battle against a cruel and merciless disease. With the love and support of his wife and family he faced the immense challenges it presented with great courage and never lost the wit and humour which made him such a warm and delightful companion. 

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Carol and the family who have lost a loving husband and father, and to his numerous friends and fellow volunteers who will deeply miss the “Little Giant” of the Thursday Group. We will remember him with great affection. 

The funeral will be held at the Amersham Crematorium at 11.30am. on Thursday 5^th April.