Chelford recently lost a prominent volunteer in the local community by the death of Mike Jehan aged 75 after a sudden illness.
Mike and his partner (more recently, husband),David, have lived in Chelford for 15 years after moving to Cheshire to work at the Manor House, Chelford.
After Mike took retirement due to his increasing osteo arthritis he played a prominent part in the local community, firstly as Chair and then Secretary of "Chelford Tenants & Residents Association". The name of the Association was changed recently to "Chelford Together" to more truly represent the work it does in the whole community.
He was also a very involved resident with Peaks and Plains Housing Trust based in Macclesfield, Cheshire eventually becoming Chair of the Challenge Group, a group of residents that sits below the Board and scrutinises the work the Housing Association does. His commitment to the community, despite worsening health continued with activities in Chelford Community Hub, Astle Court and many mainly older residents have benefitted for the work he undertook in the range of activities organised including lunches, afternoon teas, quiz nights, coffee mornings, a community gardening club, special events and even an annual holiday.
In 2015 the recognition of the voluntary work was given with the presenting of "The Queens Award for Voluntary Service" by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs, and Mike and his husband David were invited to attend the Queens Garden Party.Mike always strived to help others in any way possible and many initiatives were set up including benefit support, carers support, and more recently from the work undertaken by "Chelford Together" a new voluntary befriending service has been set up "Connecting Chelford".
Fundraising with his husband has also enabled a 20 foot by 10 foot Community Greenhouse, the raising of £6,000 for three defibrillators for Chelford and shortly the extension and improvement of Chelford Community Hub.
Mike will be sadly missed by the community, but his legacy and fun approach to life will live on. Events at Chelford Together are due to recommence in March 2020.