The community of Castle Caereinion is mourning the sudden loss of one of its most treasured citizens.

Michael Rogers, almost universally known as 'Mike the Shop', died in Stoke Hospital on Monday, April 20, after suffering a heart attack at home on Saturday before.

Mike’s parents ran the village shop in Castle Caereinion, where Mike was born and raised. After his father’s death Mike helped his mother run the shop, as well as looking after her at home in her final days.

Revd Steve Willson, Rector of Castle Caereinion, said: "Michael was everything a village shopkeeper should be. He had a friendly greeting for everyone (and a nickname for many) and was always happy to chat. He had a knack for a well-placed comment, that would start us debating current news, and the wit to ensure we usually left chuckling. He was keen to help with requests and delivered to people when necessary. Just as valuably, he was the fount of all knowledge on Castle Caereinion and its people, past and present - especially helpful for newcomers, whom he was always keen to introduce to others."

Apart from his work in the shop Mike was an integral part of the community’s Recreation Association (of which he was chair) and St Garmon’s Church, as well as a keen supporter of all village activities, including the WI. His deep faith was demonstrated in his actions and in quiet ways that others often didn’t see - Michael was never one to make a fuss about anything, he just quietly got on with doing all he could for people in his own way.

Revd Willson said: "It is deeply distressing that our current situation prevents people from coming together to grieve for him at this time, but Mike was such an integral part of the village that he will be acknowledged at every house as the hearse passes through the village next Tuesday." A memorial service to celebrate his life will certainly follow at some point in the future.

"The term ‘a nation of shopkeepers’ has sometimes been perceived as a disparaging description of the British. But if we were all like ‘Mike the Shop’, the world would be a far better place," Revd Willson said.