It ends a magnificent sixteen year spell as the man behind the lens at the club, during which time he has been almost solely responsible for visually documenting its recent history.

His involvement with the club began in the summer of 2008 and Mike recalls his first time capturing the action being the pre-season friendly with Arsenal. A Gunners XI including Wojciech Szczęsny, Kieran Gibbs and Jack Wilshere ran out 5-1 winners that day.

“We have been spoilt having Mike for so many years, a true ever-present part of the clubs fabric!”
George Dowell

Given the impossible task of selecting a favourite image from his time, Mike went with a photo (below) of the players celebrating in the changing room at Bowers & Pitsea having just clinched the Isthmian League Premier Division title in 2022.

An immensely popular figure at the club, Mike’s dedication meant he rarely missed a game both home and away and he became an invaluable resource that the club has been extremely fortunate to benefit from for so long.

Owner George Dowell said: “We have been spoilt having Mike for so many years, a true ever-present part of the clubs fabric!”

“His commitment to travelling to games both home and away, taking high quality photos and capturing the Club’s history has been priceless – all as volunteer, but more importantly a loyal fan”.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to get to know him personally, and work closely with him in more recent years as part of the media team – of which he was a founding member and integral part of all that we have achieved!”

“We’ll miss you massively, Mike – but wish you all the very best in your retirement from behind the lens and look forward to still seeing you at the games as a fan!”.

There will be a presentation on the pitch to thank Mike at the first home game of the season with Hornchurch on Saturday 7th September.

Thank you, Mike!