Tolkien 2005 Committee

Mike desired dragons from a very early age. From virtually day one he had a love affair with his own imagination, probably fuelled initially by such movie heroes as Jason, Sinbad and Captain Nemo. He has always had a need to transfer the images that form in his mind onto paper, whether by drawing or writing. His first medium, however, was most definitely lego; complex sculptures of castles, spacecraft and mythological creatures littered the bedroom floor whilst his age was still in single figures.

Before Tolkien, however, he says his scribblings lacked direction. The Lord of the Rings in particular gave substance to all that he had only glimpsed before. He is not ashamed to say that he is eternally indebted to the Professor for his profound influence on his life. He believes that every time we read his books we contribute towards the sub-creation of Middle-earth; every time we see a new blade of grass on the fields of Rohan, a fresh colour in a Shire sunset, or shed yet another tear for the passing of a hero.

Mike tentatively joined The Tolkien Society three years ago, not sure what to expect. But the common theme that brings everyone together is so powerful that all notions of elitism melt away: "Though our feet are planted firmly in a material reality, are all comforted by the common knowledge that our hearts reside in Middle-earth." Joining the 2005 Committee has given him the chance to give a little back, to repay JRRT in some small way for the gift of his legacy.