Yahoo News Tributes pour in as bar owner and ‘huge part of the Prestwich community’ dies unexpectedly at 45
Tributes have poured in after the co-owner of a popular bar in Prestwich who put his local area ‘on the map’ passed away unexpectedly.
Mike Price, who ran the Cuckoo bar in Prestwich, died on Monday (April 22) at the age of 45. The news was first announced by the family and the bar, which is located on Bury New Road, on social media earlier today.
Posting on Instagram, the bar and events venue wrote: “The family and Cuckoo team are devastated to share our sadness that our beloved Mike unexpectedly passed away yesterday. We love you so much Mike.”
Described as the ‘heart and soul’ of Cuckoo, Mike was behind the bar since its inception in 2013, leading the way for other independents to join the community.
A statement issued to the M.E.N on behalf of Mike’s family and the staff at Cuckoo said: “With heavy hearts, we’re devastated to announce the sudden and profound loss of our beloved Mike, the visionary founder and heart and soul of Cuckoo.
“Mike was a huge part of the Prestwich community, as well as a loving son, friend and devoted father to his two cherished girls, with an unbelievable passion for music, sport and life. The Cuckoo team and all Mike’s family are taking enormous comfort in the outpouring of love and memories from those who knew him. In this difficult time, we ask for kindness and privacy as Mike's family, friends and colleagues process this tragic loss.”
In response to Cuckoo’s post on Instagram, many local businesses and members of the Prestwich area were keen to share tributes to the bar owner, with one person saying the ‘impact he had to the whole of Prestwich is huge’.
Chip shop Chips @ No.8 wrote in response to Cuckoo’s post: “Devastated and heartbroken to hear the news this morning. His legacy is all around us. Prestwich wouldn’t be what it is without his vision.”
Actress and comedian Sophie Willian said: “So very sad, shocked and sorry to hear this. Sending so much love to his family.” Artist and illustrator Stanley Chow posted: “So sorry to hear this devastating news.”
Others were keen to share the impact Mike has had on the Prestwich area, often driving the community together through events and his work. One person wrote: “Heartbroken. Mike has been a pivotal driver in making Prestwich what it’s had become and is still becoming. Lost for words.”
Another wrote: “What Mike did for my home town, I will never be able to thank him enough for. Mike brought Prestwich together as a community and made it what it is today. Big love.”
