Soul Survivor pays tribute to Michael Bird who died aged 20

Michael Bird died on December 20  at Watford General Hospital from an intracranial bleed and has been remembered for his impact in the community, particularly through Soul Survivor Church, in Greycaine Road.

Michael was a volunteer, and in his role on the traffic team he was described as “the first smiling face that people saw when coming to church”.

Senior pastor Reverend Andy Croft said: “Michael was a kind, gentle and joyous part of our church family.

“He was always thinking of others and serving behind the scenes. The day before he died Michael was cheerfully standing outside in the cold helping direct traffic for our carol services.

“This is one of many examples of his generous heart and warm spirit.

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“To lose him so suddenly has caused huge heartache but we are so thankful to have known him and we celebrate all that he meant to us.”

Another church member added: “He is so valued. He was such a kind man and we loved hanging out with him."

The former West Herts College student had asked for his organs to be donated and matches have been found for heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and stomach.

Michael Bird (Image: The family)

After achieving merits and distinctions in plumbing at college, Michael joined his father’s business working at festivals throughout the country, including Badminton Horse Trials, Royal Ascot, Big Church Festival, and most recently Operation London Bridge for the Queen's funeral.

A production manager said: “He'll be greatly missed especially on site at events where he was consistently hard working, kind and generous.”

Others he worked with described him as “an amazing young man who brought so much to every team” and someone “whose wit can light up an entire drenched and dreary empty festival showground”.

(Left to right) Michael, his sister Emma, her husband Jon, his brother Tim (Image: The family)

The family added that they would like to thank emergency services, as well as Watford General’s A&E, ICU, and organ donation team for their “absolutely fantastic response in such a terrible time”.