Mike Woodward passed away on 13 May 2010. Born on 25 November 1936 and an old boy of King Edward the Sixth Grammar School, Camp Hill, Birmingham, Mike graduated from Birmingham in 1961, along with his great friend, Neville Hall, who gave a tribute at Mike's service of Thanksgiving on 28 May.

On graduation Mike joined a local practice part-time in Hall Green, Birmingham, the other half of his working week being at the School Clinic Service in Stratford upon Avon. Philip Evans, the practice principal, liked Birmingham graduates and Mike gained invaluable experience from him, eventually setting up his own practice at 3, Highland Street, Ivybridge in 1972 where he worked happily for nearly 25 years until his retirement in October 1996.

In September 1961 Mike married Angela, and in 1964 moved to Plymouth, where he joined a dental practice on Mutley Plain to work with Owen Sims and David Endacott.

At that time he became involved with the British Dental Association and its local dental committees, serving as the Plymouth Section's treasurer until his retirement. It was with some amusement that the present treasurer found that, despite numerous attempts by the bank to change the details, Mike still remains on their computer as the section treasurer! For many years Mike and Angela were key to the success of the exchange visits between Plymouth and Brest dentists, making use of Angela's excellent language skills.

Mike was a dedicated family man, caring and generous, professionally very ethical. He was always willing to help others, which he would do in a quiet and ordered manner. Whatever he became involved with, he was always supportive in every way. We have all lost a loyal friend.

Mike was always a keen cricketer and in cricket terms, although Mike has been bowled out, the life-long innings that he has played have been magnificent in every way, and will not be forgotten.

Our thoughts are with Angela, Stephen and his family and Andy at their time of sadness.